North Niagara residents are facing high electricity bills due to the aftermath of recent flooding. Following severe flooding in July and August, households utilized industrial-sized dehumidifiers, powerful fans, and sump pumps to dry their properties, resulting in a significant surge in electricity consumption. Many residents are now experiencing shock at the increased costs on their hydro bills, with some bills tripling or quadrupling compared to previous months.
Coun. Kevin Townsend disclosed that numerous residents, including a senior citizen who was reduced to tears, have contacted him regarding their soaring hydro bills. One resident saw her bill spike to $360 from the usual range of $50 to $80 per month, causing financial distress.
In response to the situation, the City of St. Catherines Council unanimously supported Townsend’s motion urging the Ontario Energy Board to provide relief to residents facing substantial hydro usage spikes due to the flooding. The resolution seeks collaboration between the energy board and local hydro utilities to find a solution for affected residents.
The resolution highlighted that households should not bear the burden of increased hydro charges resulting from circumstances beyond their control, especially as they are already dealing with significant expenses to repair their homes. City officials are hopeful that the province will offer financial assistance to cover the millions in flood-related costs.
The city is in the process of filing a claim under the provincial Municipal Disaster Assistance Program by the November 18 deadline. This program assists municipalities in recovering from extraordinary costs incurred following a natural disaster.
Additionally, the city has allocated funds for flood relief efforts, including $1.2 million for the collection of flood-damaged items and emergency repairs in Port Dalhousie. To address the surge in flood protection device applications, the city redirected $20 million to the Emergency Flood Alleviation Program, aiming to reimburse eligible homeowners for 90% of the costs (up to $5,000) for devices like backflow valves.
During the council meeting, terms of reference were approved for an expert panel tasked with studying the recent flooding and formulating an action plan. Mayor Mat Siscoe emphasized the urgency in moving forward with this process to address the flooding issues promptly.
Furthermore, the council sanctioned over $600,000 of the required $1.2 million for stabilizing a slope in Port Dalhousie, following a retaining wall failure on Canal Street that posed a threat to historic Dalhousie House. Staff will engage with affected individuals to communicate the necessary steps following evacuations.