Twenty years of innovative water management is noteworthy. As 2016 came to a close, Halifax Water released its twentieth annual report, noting the many accomplishments it has achieved since the utility was formed in 1945.
In 1996, Metro amalgamation saw Halifax Water’s role expand to a regional water utility. In 2007, Halifax Water became Canada’s first regulated water, wastewater and stormwater utility. When the municipality of Halifax transferred the region’s wastewater and stormwater assets over to the utility, the organization invested in wastewater infrastructure to meet new federal regulations including completion of the Harbour Solutions project, upgrading and expanding the Eastern Passage Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) and installation of regional trunk sewers to facilitate growth.
The annual report noted many key accomplishments, including sponsoring a Natural Science and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) Research Chair in drinking water at Dalhousie University since 2007 (Dr. Graham Gagnon), wastewater treatment plant optimization, adding a fish ladder during the Lake Major dam repair, completion of the feasibility study of Advanced Metering Infrastructure. With regard to overall financial results, the utility realized a net income of $4.2 million for the fiscal year.
Halifax Water General Manager Carl Yates said, “Water, wastewater and stormwater services play a critical role in the social, economic and environmental well-being of our community. Halifax Water will continue to be at the forefront of innovation and stewardship to help ensure we pass a legacy of sound infrastructure to our kids and grandkids.”
Halifax Water’s twentieth annual report can be online.
