Parksville city staff will investigate areas of potential environmental concern in the city’s operations works yard.
An investigation revealed the yard has several gravel areas where materials such as road sweeper loads, vac-truck loads and excavated materials are dumped for future handling or disposal. The facilities were acceptable under previous environmental regulations, but the city will need to look into whether they still meet those regulations, according to a report by Michael Lonsdale, manager of special projects.
Phase 2 will involve soil, groundwater and vapour sampling to test for the presence of potential contaminants of concern and examine the materials being stored, dumped, or washed and review current regulations and practices. Based on its findings, updated disposal and wash facilities may be designed to lessen potential environmental impacts and ensure ensure the facility meets regulations.
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The initial site assessment came in well under budget at $5,000 in March. Lonsdale asked council, during its July 18 regular meeting, for the project’s remaining $30,000 to be put towards a second phase, as well as a requested additional $34,000.
Council voted to amend the 2022 financial plan to increase the budget for the project’s second phase, from the city’s accumulated surplus.
— NEWS Staff