Sewers needed for Ramsey Lake homes, councillor says

One city councillor says installing sewers for 50 homes on Ramsey Lake should be at the top of Greater Sudbury's to-do list and that spending a couple of million tax dollars is worth the long-term protection of the city's drinking water.

Frances Caldarelli said septic systems homes on the south shore of the Sudbury water body are contributing to potentially toxic blue green algae in the lake.

"While it really affects those 50 people, it's affecting everyone who takes water out of that lake ... in the long-term", Caldarelli said.

In addition to being a city drinking water source, Ramsey Lake is a popular swimming destination for those who go to Bell Park. It also fronts the citys science centre and his home to sailing and canoe clubs.

High price tag

Caldarelli said she would like to see the costs ofputting in the sewers split between the city and the residents who live there.

Staff estimated installing sewers would take $2.5 million out of city coffers and leave each home owner to pay $50,000.

Lakefront resident Herv Sauv said he wants the sewers, but isn't sure about the price tag.

"Well, I would prefer less because [the sewer is only installed] at the road for $50,000," Sauv said. "But we have to get [the sewer line] to our house and [thats] another substantial amount of money."

Caldarelli said she hopes to keep the costs for residents as low as possible. But first she has to convince the rest of city council that this is a priority for all of Greater Sudbury, and not just 50 people in the south end.