Schomberg water system easements approved
By Bill Rea

King councillors last week had little trouble with a couple of small land transactions in Schomberg.

In the interests of facilitating the development of the upgraded Schomberg water supply, some small properties were deemed surplus so easements could be granted to York Region.

A public information meeting was held on the issue last Monday, but there were no objections or comments from any residents at that session.

Township staff reported the Region is expanding the existing pumping station on Western Avenue (just west of Main Street), and requires a slightly larger piece of land for the project. As well, council agreed to allow the region to run a watermain under Western Avenue, and since that is part of a road allowance, an easement was not required.

Clerk Chris Somerville reported there have been no objections from the Township's operations or parks and recreation departments, although both will want to be kept informed of the schedule of the work, since part of the parking lot of the local arena is going to be torn up.

Councillor Jack Rupke wondered if directional boring had been considered. Director of Operations Jody LaPlante said it had been, but the Township had negotiated a deal with the Region to get a larger portion of the parking lot paved, so it should work out as a benefit in the long run.

Somerville told Councillor Jane Underhill the Region will be picking up al the costs through development charges, so the Township won't be put to expense.

Councillor Bill Cober asked a copy of the staff report be sent to the arena board for their records.