As flood waters recede, local officials reflected on the trying times over the course of the last two harrowing weeks of torrential rain, mudslides and floods.
Mayor Leo Facio of Harrison Hot Springs released a statement on Thursday (Dec. 2) thanking village staff and residents for how the flood was handled.
Facio congratulated the utilities crew, noting that services were virtually uninterrupted for the two weeks when the weather was at its worst.
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“The wastewater treatment plant and flood pumps remained fully operational throughout these extraordinary storms,” Facio wrote. “Throughout these storm events, curbside collection of garbage, recycling, and organics also remained uninterrupted thanks to GFL Environmental and their drivers.”
Facio attributed part of the village’s wastewater system’s success in flood mitigation to residents limiting wastewater use throughout the village.
“The Village Council and staff are grateful for your understanding and support during this trying time,” Facio wrote. “Your cooperation in limiting wastewater use while our system, like those in other communities (operating) under challenging conditions, made a difference.”
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Facio thanked the residents who volunteered to fill sandbags for the community and Agassiz Ready Mix for quickly stepping in to provide the necessary sand.
Village officials continue to urge caution near village greenways and trails; they remain closed at this time due to the extreme weather.
“Refrain from entering hazardous, impacted and affected areas for photo, media, and video opportunities, as well
as environmentally and culturally sensitive places of significance
Facio urged residents who need assistance to apply for Disaster Financial Assistance (DFA) as soon as possible by contacting the DFA team at dfa@gov.bc.ca or calling 1-888-257-4777.
Facio encouraged residents to support local businesses during this holiday season.
“Please know that I am advocating to the Province for additional financial assistance to ensure that our business sector is better positioned to welcome visitors back when it is safe to do so,” Facio wrote.
“Our hearts go out to all those affected in Harrison Hot Springs and across the province.”
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