Notice from the City of Owen Sound: June 22, 2009

ACCOMPLISHMENTS:
Year 2 of a 3 year effort to redirect Rain Water from the sanitary system was approved by City Council for 2009. Last year in 2008, the program was very successful. With the cooperation of many building owners and tenants we were able to divert rainwater from the roofs of 26 downtown businesses along 2nd Ave E between 7th Street East and 11th Street East. The total roof area collected and diverted to the storm system is more than (3 acres) or 1.3 ha. Most of the work done in 2009 was completed by Riddell Contracting, J.P. Commercial contractors and Muzzell Plumbing.

WHO CAN BENEFIT?

The program is available to the owners of most properties fronting along 2nd Avenue East between 7th Street East and 11th Street East. However, not every property is eligible. Each building is assessed to determine if it’s actually possible to make the required changes. Participation in the program is voluntary and at this time, the City is funding 100% of the construction costs. Full funding is not guaranteed for future phases. Engineering Services and the Chief Building Official will be managing all aspects of the diversion program. Coordination of each diversion will be managed through one contact with the City. For 2009, City Council has dedicated $250,000.00 toward the program and Operations Staff will be working with building owners and tenants to make the program available to as many owners as possible within the budget allowed.

WHO PAYS FOR WHAT and HOW THE PROGRAM WORKS

Owners will receive an estimate from the Contractor. The Owner and the City will approve the estimate before the work starts. After the work is completed, the Owner will pay the Contractor. Owners will then submit an invoice to the City with the paid invoice attached. The City will then reimburse the Owner within 30 days. Reimbursement will be for construction activities only. Compensation for interruption to business or loss of business due to construction activities will not be paid for. The City and the Contractor will try to minimize any inconvenience to the businesses or owner. Cooperation by the owner to coordinate the work is expected. A release signed by the Owner relieving the City of any liability or loss will also be required. Should an Owner wish to undertake the work them selves or hire a private Contractor, they will be required to submit an estimate of the work to the City for approval and will be subject to the same requirements under the Ontario Building Code. The City’s contractor will provide an estimate for the work as well. The owner will be reimbursed for the work based on the lowest estimate.

SUMMARY:
Engineering Services will provide a 24hr emergency phone number for your convenience. City Staff will endeavor to deal with issues quickly.

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Peter Paquette
Engineering Technologist & Project Manager
CITY OF OWEN SOUND
519 376 4530 ext 304
519 379 4050 Mobile

Chris Webb P.Eng
Manager of Engineering Services
CITY OF OWEN SOUND