Saint John councillors are expected to hear more concerns about west side water issues on May 7.
That’s when members of the West Side Ratepayers Association will make a presentation before council.
West siders are frustrated about the lack of engagement from council, who were recently told by lawyers not to attend any of the association’s meetings due to the proposed class-action lawsuit.
Mayor Don Darling says council is committed to engaging with residents and hearing all perspectives.
But Darling says the proposed lawsuit brings with it the added complication that all west siders have the potential to become part of it.
“Because of this fact, and in protecting the interests of all ratepayers, our very clear legal advice is to provide factual and timely information through a clear and consistent communications approach,” says Darling, “and not to engage in rumour, anecdotes, innuendo or speculation.”
Darling admits the switch to well water has caused some “unforeseen challenges”, as with any large project, but says the new water source “provides west Saint John with a safer and sustainable source of water.”
He says the city remains committed to investigating the reported problems and reporting back to council and the community at large.
