Amid strange security precautions, Bruderheim town officials and other dignitaries cut the ribbon for the community’s $5.9 million water reservoir expansion which greatly enhances Bruderheim’s growth potential.
Mayor Karl Hauch, Fort Saskatchewan Vegreville MLA Jackie Armstrong Homeniuk, and Transportation and Economic Corridors Minister Devin Dreeshen all spoke at the ribbon cutting Nov. 15.
Prior to introducing Armstrong Homeniuk, Bruderheim Chief Administrative Officer Phyllis Forsyth said, with the MLA’s work and support provincial funding was obtained meaning the Town’s portion of the reservoir costs could be captured from existing reserves meaning no tax increases to support the project.
The project will use $140,000 from reserve funds.
“This is an essential project for your town,” Armstrong Homeniuk said.
“Your commitment for supporting and building Bruderheim’s future is truly inspiring,” referring to the community’s leadership team.
“It shows that even in a small town big things are possible.”
She suggested the improved reservoir will give the community the opportunity to pursue future economic growth.
Dreeshen said the local MLA had “been instrumental in advocating for this project.
“It’s great to see this project go from inception to the ribbon finally being cut,” said Dreeshen. “It’s obvious that the need was there.
“The benefits will be for so many generations and it will enhance the fire services in the event of an emergency.”
He added the $3.4 million investment from the Province is something he was proud of and was glad to get the project “across the finish line.”
Mayor Hauch thanked everyone for coming to the ribbon cutting.
“This has been an amazing dream,” he said. “Our Chief Operating Officer Dennis has been very quick and accurate in pointing out when things need fixing and while infrastructure is not as pretty as a new skateboard park or a better play area, it is hugely important for the future of the community and Dennis has been instrumental in making sure we’re aware of those issues.”
He added the reservoir expansion was a project that would benefit the town for a long, long time.
“We have always been known for punching above our weight and this has been a big challenge, but we’re not afraid of a challenge and this will benefit the town for a long time to come.”
He added the expansion would make Bruderheim the only community within Lamont County that would meet National Fire Protection Association standards.
When council was discussing this project several years ago they were told the town had a flow rate of about 103 metres per second to the fire hydrants when a flow rate of 250 metres per second was needed. That standard is now reached.
“Our council believed we could achieve this and most importantly it was for our town residents,” added Hauch. “They deserve the very best and today we’re fortunate to be able to provide it for them.”
JOHN MATHER
