As we continue to move forward with PHAI activities, we are working on multiple fronts to improve our operational efficiency on the cleanup of privately owned properties. As you know we have been working over several years on the proposed change to arsenic levels to create more certainty for residents, while reducing the overall impact of the project on the built and natural environment as well as on the community itself. This process is still underway and is dependent on the decision made by the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission.
There are several factors that affect remediation scheduling including:
- Coordination with municipal infrastructure projects to minimize disruptions to neighbourhoods and the community overall.
- Potential adjustments to arsenic cleanup thresholds.
- Additional testing to thoroughly plan work on each property prior to remediation, based on the complexity of the work to be completed.
We continue to make communication improvements in response to resident feedback in keeping with our Public Information Plan. These include:
- Enhanced Information Packages: Clear, detailed materials about remediation and restoration plans, including information about the special circumstances protocol and additional handouts for residents explaining the sequence of steps necessary to complete remediation and restoration at their properties are provided to each resident in the design phase
- Increased Contractor Accountability: Closer integration and collaboration with communication staff to promptly address inquiries, including designated contractor representatives for interface with residents along the process
- Expanded Pre-Restoration Meetings: Additional touch points with residents to discuss site conditions, address concerns, and finalize restoration plans BEFORE contractors begin restoration at a given property.
- Community Information Sessions: Expanded public outreach about the cleanup of private properties to ensure residents waiting for a cleanup understand the process and the different potential scenarios and options available to them. CNL plans to hold public information sessions regarding the PHAI and the small-scale-sites program in 2025. Follow us on social media or phai.ca to stay up to date about our planned public engagement sessions.
We appreciate your continued patience and support as we complete the move towards a cleaner environment.
