Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy is calling for the creation of a flooding task force following repeated flood events that have affected homes, roads and businesses across the municipality, particularly in Harrow and Colchester. The proposed group would examine stormwater systems, aging infrastructure, development and climate factors. It would also consult residents and experts before reporting back to council with recommendations, cost estimates and potential funding options. Bondy is scheduled to introduce a motion at Monday’s council meeting seeking support for the initiative. “This would take it to the next level,” she said. “It would take a holistic view of our infrastructure and give us actual costs and data that we can bring to residents and say, if we’re going to improve infrastructure, this is what it’s going to cost, these are the things we’re already doing and this is how we could potentially fund it.” Bondy said the proposed task force would be similar to one established in 2015 following basement flooding in Ward 1. “That group included consultants, members of administration and community members, and they came up with a lot of solutions for Essex Ward 1,” she said. “I want to see if we can do something similar.” She said the composition of the task force would be up to council to decide during debate. Bondy stressed the importance of transparency and resident involvement, including clearly outlining municipal responsibilities versus steps homeowners must take themselves. “When it rains, people panic, and we need to make sure they have the information to look at their basement, ensure it’s fortified, they have sump pump backups and that everything is in working order,” she said. Bondy said the motion will be introduced Monday, with debate expected May 4, and encouraged residents to attend and provide feedback.
