Starting in 2025, Tla’amin Nation will connect to the City’s new sewage treatment plant for liquid waste treatment and disposal, while continuing to manage its community collection system. Tla’amin Nation’s participation in the project helped in securing federal and provincial capital funds.

“This partnership is a win-win for both Tla’amin and the City,” said Hegus John Hackett. “The City has a modern system with extra capacity, and we were facing the challenge of replacing our aging infrastructure. This agreement showcases what we can achieve by working together, and I’m excited for future collaborations.”

The new treatment plant replaced three older facilities (Westview, Townsite, Wildwood) with a consolidated, modern system. The wastewater treatment plant was sized to accommodate regional growth, including the Tla’amin Nation connection.

“This agreement, which economically and sustainably supports both of our community’s fundamental needs, represents a long-term commitment to working together in a spirit of genuine partnership”, said Mayor Woznow.

Public Works and Infrastructure Housepost Losa Luaifoa said “This project is good for the land, the water and the people. Our region replaced four aging systems with one new one, representing a sustainable and forward-thinking approach to shared infrastructure.”

The current Tla’amin sewage treatment plant, built in 1973, is nearing the end of its lifespan. After exploring options, the Nation determined that tying into the City’s system was the safest and most cost-effective solution.

As part of the transition, Tla’amin will decommission its existing plant, install a new pump house, and retain a small emergency tank. The waterfront site of the old facility will be restored as a community recreational space.

Under a 50-year agreement, Tla’amin will contribute sewer user fees equivalent to the total sewer fees and taxes charged to City residents. The terms of the agreement will be reviewed every five years.

96% of the new sewage plant costs are fixed. Bringing more users online improves the economics for City residents as these fixed costs are further spread out. The Nation will cover the capital costs for pumps and piping needed to connect to the City’s system in Wildwood.

Additionally, Tla’amin public works staff will receive on-the-job training at the new facility, building local expertise and strengthening collaboration.

Contacts:

Tla’amin Nation | [email protected]

City of Powell River | [email protected]