Would you like to learn more about the regional water project?
The Town of Stonewall and RM of Woodlands are hosting several upcoming open house events to provide information and receive feedback.
The town and RM are working together on a project to secure a high-quality water source for Stonewall, Woodlands and Warren that is treated through reverse osmosis.
Reverse osmosis is a purification process that removes impurities and hardness from raw water. By installing a reverse osmosis system in the new water treatment plant, there would be no need for residential water softeners or home-based reverse osmosis systems.
Currently, the wells in Stonewall are about 40 years old. They will soon need to be refurbished or replaced before they fail. In addition, an expansion is needed for the existing reservoir.
The Warren reservoir is over capacity and needs to be expanded or reconstructed before it can accommodate any future development. The town of Woodlands has infrastructure for water distribution but no water source.
The two municipalities have also been working with the Manitoba Water Services Board and Stantec Engineering on studies and designs.
Up to 73 per cent of the current project costs would be funded by federal and provincial government contributions.
Residents will have multiple opportunities to learn more at upcoming open house events.
“The town council encourages all residents of Stonewall to take the opportunity and attend one of the scheduled open houses,” said Stonewall Mayor Sandra Smith.
“If you have questions about the proposed initiative or are just curious about the project, your attendance is the best way to become informed.”
Woodlands Reeve Doug Oliver also expressed enthusiasm for the project, as well as for the feedback opportunities.
“The RM of Woodlands council is excited to bring high-quality water to the towns of Woodlands and Warren. Clean, reliable water is essential to both our health and economic growth, and this project represents a long-term investment in our municipality,” he said.
“We look forward to sharing more information with residents at our open houses. Your feedback is crucial for this project to move forward.”
On Tuesday, Nov. 5, an open house will take place at the Warren Memorial Hall (145 MacDonald Ave.) from 7 to 9 p.m.
On Wednesday, Nov. 6, an open house will take place at Woodlands Legion (120 Argyle St.) from 7 to 9 p.m.
On Thursday, Nov. 7, an open house will take place in the Access Auditorium at Stonewall Quarry Park Heritage Arts Centre from 2 to 5 p.m. and another from 7 to 9 p.m.
Depending on the outcome of the public consultation process, the new water treatment plant could be ready by late 2025.
