Thunder Bay city council looks at new water rebate program

City councillors in Thunder Bay agreed on Monday night to move forward on a proposed rebate program for low income seniors, if their water bills double.

Councillor Shelby Ch'ngbrought forward the idea, after hearing from two constituents, who said they could not afford to pay large water bills.

Ch'ng said she heard from one woman who explained that when hertoilet broke, it used$600 more water than usual.

The homeowner did not notice the toilet was running for a long time, she said.

"They're reduced to having to ask their family for help. They may have to forego buying food for the month," said Ch'ng.

"The one lady I was speaking with, she couldn't afford her bus passes. And these are decisions I think as an individual, it's really hard to hear our seniors dealing with," she said.

Council agreed to look into the program, while also receiving information about another pilot program created last year for low income households.

Theprogram provides a $100 tax and water rebate for eligible households. Administration told council that 22 homeowners have signed up for the credit, much lower than the expected uptake.

Administration will recommend that at budget time, council increase the rebate to $200.

Harry Kirk Archives Centre

Council also agreed to rename the current city archives centre after former city clerk Harry Kirk.

Kirk worked for the city for 39 years, with 29 of those years as city clerk and deputy city clerk.

Councillor Iain Angus said Kirk deserves to be recognized, after dedicating so many years to the city.

Angus lead council through 13 terms, some with tumultuous leadership, said Angus.

"Sitting at that table where Mr. Hannam sits today, had Walter Assef behind him, never knowing what was going to come at him," he said.

"Yet, hehandled it with grace and dignity, and for that reason alone I think we should name a building after Harry," said Angus.

The city will formally re-name the archives centre on Vickers Street in April, 2016.