Studies and Reports
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Explore a variety of studies and reports related to the Municipality's participation in the site selection process for the NWMO's Project to manage used nuclear fuel. Follow our news updates and attend an upcoming Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meeting to stay informed and learn more.
36 Guiding Principles
The Municipality of South Bruce developed 36 Guiding Principles with community input. The principles are focused on safety for people and the environment, ensuring the Project brings meaningful benefits to the community, and ensuring the community has a voice in decision making. These principles sum up the community's expectations for the Project, and guide our engagement with the NWMO. They do not preclude other factors that may become important in the future.
Studies and Peer Reviews
There are more than 40 studies planned or underway to help our community better understand the potential social, economic, environmental and health effects of the Project. These studies will address many of the Guiding Principles. The Municipality is leading some of the studies and the NWMO is leading some of the others. The Municipality’s consultants are independently peer reviewing all NWMO work. These studies will be conducted and shared in 2022 and 2023.
Results of these studies and the peer reviews will be published below and will also be presented at CLC meetings. Read the Overview of Studies to learn more.
South Bruce and Area Growth Expectations Memo
MDB Insight (now Deloitte) retained metroeconomics to assess the potential for economic and demographic growth over the period from 2022 to 2046 of South Bruce and of the four municipalities surrounding it. MDB indicated an assessment of the area’s potential both as a result of normal growth and as a result of the planning, construction and operation of the Project were required.
This memo summarizes the procedure followed by metroeconomics to develop the required assessments and summarizes the impact results.
May 5 CLC Presentation - Baseline Conditions and Community Growth Targets
Demographics and Growth Expectations Householder
Community Profiles
Deloitte completed two profiles, the Municipality of South Bruce Community Profile and the South Bruce and Core Study Area Profile in early 2023. Each of these reports contain demographics, labour force, business and other data and compares it to County and provincial data.
Municipally led studies
South Bruce has hired consultants to conduct a range of studies on the potential impact of the Project. Read more about these completed and ongoing studies by clicking on a study title.
Municipal Economic Development Strategy Update |
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Consultant: MDB Insight
This strategy update analyzes economic development opportunities outside of the NWMO Project and recommends ways to support our business community, and ways to attract new investment. MDB Insight, who conducted the work for the Municipality of South Bruce in Summer 2021, consulted Council, business owners and community members. The plan identifies three strategic objectives with accompanying priorities and action plans. Municipality of South Bruce Economic Development Strategy Update |
Municipal Corporate Strategic Plan (2021-2025) |
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Consultant: MDB Insight
This Plan defines our community’s vision for the future, and steps that can be taken to get there. It is a guide for Council and staff; providing direction and actions to create a sustainable community that provides economic growth, while protecting the environment and culture we share. MDB Insight consulted with community members, business owners, municipal staff, council, and community groups in Summer 2021. These discussions provided a clear picture of South Bruce’s strengths and weaknesses, goals, aspirations, as well as what we consider to be important. Municipality of South Bruce Corporate Strategic Plan 2021-2025 |
Willingness Process Consultation and Study |
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Consultant: GHD Limited
This study was independently led by GHD Limited for the Municipality of South Bruce and was completed in the Fall of 2021. Its purpose was to gather input from residents and ratepayers about how to determine the community’s willingness to host the Project. While participants shared a number of ways that they felt willingness should be measured, a few key themes emerged including a preference for a public referendum. There was not strong consensus on the timing. Other methods were also suggested with some participants preferring multiple indicators of willingness. Some participants felt that the results of the studies, and ensuring that the Guiding Principles are addressed were needed before determining willingness. The study indicated that broad participation by South Bruce community members, transparency, and engagement throughout the process are important overall. After reviewing the study feedback, Council unanimously decided that a public referendum should be held after studies were completed and the community understands the terms for hosting the site in the form of a draft agreement. Learn more about this Council decision. Read the one page summary shared with our community in February 2022, Willingness: The Path Forward.
This study addresses Guiding Principles #9 (Willingness) and #24 (Willingness Costs).
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Recreation Master Plan |
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Consultant: Tract Consulting
A review of current recreational facilities and services which identifies gaps and how to meet future demand based on potential growth in South Bruce, without the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #6 (River Access) and #32 (Community Services Strategy). |
Effects on Recreational Resources Study |
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Consultant: Tract Consulting
Building off of the Recreation Master Plan, this study will look at how to meet future demand based on potential growth in South Bruce, if the Project goes forward.
This study will address Guiding Principles #6 (River Access), #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #29 (Infrastructure Strategy and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Peer Review Report - Effects on Recreational Resources Study |
Agriculture Business Impact Study |
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Consultant: Deloitte
A study of the Project’s potential effect on the local agriculture/agri-business sector. This includes how NWMO lands could support new agri-business, and how to address potential changes to product or property values. This study will address Guiding Principles #5 (Maintaining Agricultural Character), #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #13 (Agriculture Strategy), #19 (Centre of Expertise) and #23 (Community Betterment Payments).
Agricultural Business Impact Study |
Tourism Industry Effects Study and Strategy |
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Consultant: Deloitte
A study of the Project’s potential effect on South Bruce’s existing tourism sector. This includes ways to use the Project and Centre of Expertise to expand local tourism while protecting the unique, existing character of the community.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #12 (Mitigation for Businesses), #14 (Tourism Strategy), #19 (Centre of Expertise) and #23 (Community Benefit Payments).
Tourism Industry Effects Study and Strategy |
Local Hiring Effects Study and Strategy |
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Consultant: Deloitte
A review of the workforce that the Project will need, as well as the labour needs of other businesses. The study will also look at how to encourage businesses to rely on a strong local workforce through local hiring and/or relocating staff.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #18 (Relocating Employees), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy).
Local Hiring Effects Study and Strategy Local Hiring Effects Study and Strategy Peer Review |
Economic Development Study on Youth |
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Consultant: Deloitte
A study of potential youth job opportunities with and without the Project. It will also look at ways the Project could increase youth education and career opportunities, and considers strategies to attract and retain young skilled employees.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #15 (Youth Investments) and #20 (Employment Training Strategy).
Peer Review Study - Economic Development Study on Youth |
Economic Development Project Effects & Strategy |
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Consultant: Deloitte
A review of the local economy that will also look for potential growth opportunities based on the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #12 (Mitigation for Businesses), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy) and #22 (Procurement Strategy).
South Bruce Economic Development Project Effects & Strategy Study Peer Review - South Bruce Economic Development Project Effects & Strategy Study |
Fiscal Impact and Public Finance Study |
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Consultant: Watson & Associates Economists Limited
This study will look at the Project’s overall effect on Municipality’s finances, including potential tax revenue from the Project and potential costs. It will seek strategies for reducing any negative impact on local government finances, and will look at approaches taken regionally and globally with large infrastructure projects.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #23 (Community Betterment Payments), #24 (Willingness Costs), #25 (Peer Reviews), #26 (Regulatory Costs) and #29 (Infrastructure Strategy). |
NWMO-led studies, with peer reviews by South Bruce
NWMO-led studies tend to have a broader scope, looking at the potential impact of the Project regionally.
These studies will be peer reviewed, meaning the Municipality has retained independent experts to confirm that the
methodology and findings are valid. Read more about these ongoing studies by clicking on a study title. Additional studies set to be completed in 2022 and 2023 as seen in the Overview of Studies will be added to this table in the future.
Infrastructure Baseline and Feasibility Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited
A review of existing and planned infrastructure in South Bruce and the region. It will also detail what expansion to local infrastructure may be needed to support the Project and community growth and how this could be accomplished.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #18 (Relocating Employees), #27 (Housing Plan), #29 (Infrastructure Strategy), and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Peer Review Report Infrastructure Baseline and Feasibility Study Report (I22) Infrastructure Baseline and Feasibility Study Southwestern Ontario Community Study July 7th CLC Presentation - Infrastructure Baseline and Feasibility |
Local Traffic Effects Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited
A study of the potential effects on traffic in South Bruce and the region resulting from the Project. The study will describe current traffic, and determine what, if any, changes or improvements would be needed for traffic management.
This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #3 (Safe Transportation), #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation), #30 (Road Capacity) and #31 (Road Use Agreement).
Peer Review Report - Local Traffic Effects Study Report (I23) |
Road Conditions Effects Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited
A review of existing conditions of roads that may be used for transport, construction and operation of the Project. The study will also identify options for improvements and/or monitoring of the roads.
This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #3 (Safe Transportation), #7 (Construction/Operation Mitigation), #30 (Road Capacity), #31 (Road Use Agreement) and #36 (Regional Benefits).
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Aggregate Resources Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: R.J. Burnside & Associates Limited
A study to determine the supply and demand of aggregate resources for the Project. This includes detailing the existing aggregate in the area, as well as what the future needs would be as a result of the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principles #2 (Environmental Protection), #6 (River Access), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy), #30 (Road Capacity), and #31 (Road Use Agreement).
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Local/Regional Education Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: Deloitte
A study of the Project’s potential impacts on education in South Bruce and the region. It will describe the likely increase in school enrollment (K-12) and also outline strategies to maintain or enhance the infrastructure that would be needed, depending on the growth in enrollment.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #15 (Youth Investments), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Peer Review Report - Local/Regional Education Study |
Social Programs Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: GHD Limited A study of the Project’s potential impacts on community programs, such as daycare, adult and seniors’ programs. It will describe the current programs and services available, and identify what the increases in demand and cost for these programs would be and strategies to sustain them if the Project moves forward. Social Programs and Vulnerable Populations Study November 3rd CLC Presentation - Regional Services and Programs This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #16 (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) and #32 (Community Services Strategy). |
Vulnerable Populations Baseline and Effects Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: GHD Limited A study that will identify vulnerable populations and current supports, such as subsidized housing. It will consider what effects the Project could have on these supports and programs, and identify ways to minimize any potentially negative impacts. Social Programs and Vulnerable Populations Study November 3rd CLC Presentation - Regional Services and Programs This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #16 (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion), #27 (Housing Plan) and #32 (Community Services Strategy). |
Housing Needs and Demand Analysis Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: Deloitte
This study will assess, and plan for sufficient housing based on the needs of the Project during construction and operation. In particular, the study will look at what current accommodations, and residential lands for development are available. It will also identify how much accommodation will be needed, and ways to encourage worker residency within South Bruce.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #27 (Housing Plan), #32 (Community Services Strategy) and #33 (Zoning/Official Plan).
Housing Needs and Demand Analysis Study Housing Needs and Demand Analysis Study Peer Review |
Emergency Services Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: GHD Limited A study of the Project’s potential impacts on local/regional emergency services. It will identify if any changes need to be made to the County Emergency Response plan, and whether there is a need for increased emergency response resources. November 3rd CLC Presentation - Regional Services and Programs This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #28 (Emergency Services Funding) and #32 (Community Services Strategy). |
Land Use Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: GHD Limited
The study will consider likely changes in land use and development in South Bruce and the region as a result of the Project and address any changes that may be required to Official Plans/By-Laws/Zoning.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #11 (Property Value Protection), 29 (Infrastructure Strategy) and #33 (Zoning/Official Plan).
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Regional Economic Development Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: Deloitte This study will identify opportunities for economic development in the region surrounding South Bruce. As a part of this work, the study will identify regional businesses that could supply equipment, services, and material to the Project; which would keep opportunities and benefits in the area. Regional Economic Development Study November 3rd CLC Presentation - Regional Services and Programs This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #13 (Agriculture Strategy), #14 (Tourism Strategy), #21 (Business Opportunities Strategy), #22 (Procurement Strategy) and #36 (Regional Benefits). |
Labour Baseline Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: Deloitte
This study will identify opportunities for economic development in the region surrounding South Bruce. As a part of this work, the study will identify regional businesses that could supply equipment, services, and material to the Project; which would keep opportunities and benefits in the area.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts) and #20 (Employment Training Strategy).
Labour Baseline Study Peer Review |
Effects on Community Safety |
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Peer Review Consultant: GHD Limited
This study will summarize potential radiation effects of the Project on the safety of the community. It will also describe what safeguards could be put in place to protect people if there is an increase in radiation effects/emissions at any phase of the Project.
This study will address Guiding Principle #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts). |
Workforce Development Study |
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Peer Review Consultant: Deloitte
This study will describe the labour needs of the Project, and strategies to make sure that the local workforce has the skills to fill these needs if they so choose. As a part of this work, the study will look at how partnerships could be developed with other workplaces in the region with similar needs.
This study will address Guiding Principles #10 (Socio-Economic Impacts), #20 (Employment Training Strategy) and #32 (Community Services Strategy).
Workforce Development Study Peer Review |
Property Value Protection Program |
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The NWMO launched the PVP Program on February 17th, 2022. While not a study (and therefore not peer-reviewed by municipal consultants), this program addresses Guiding Principle #11: The NWMO, in consultation with the Municipality, will establish a property value protection program to compensate property owners in the event that property values are adversely affected by the NWMO’s site selection process and the development, construction and/or operation of the Project. Visit the NWMO website to learn more about the PVP Program.
*Note that this was listed as Property Value Monitoring Program in the Overview of Studies. The correct name is Property Value Protection; monitoring being a part of the Program. |
Values and Principles
The Guiding Values and Principles/Guiding Principles for Exploring Partnership was developed with the community to guide the way South Bruce and NWMO talk together and further explore the Project.
Householders - Summary of Study Findings
These householders were mailed out to all South Bruce residents to give a brief summary of the community studies which were shared this summer. Following each Community Liaison Committee Meeting a householder was created to summarize the presentation given that evening.
| Demographics and Growth Expectations |
| Deep Geological Repository Conceptual Design |
| Summary of the Deep Geological Repository Conceptual Design Study |
| Roads and Traffic |
| Summary of the Roads and Traffic Study |
| Community and Project Infrastructure Needs |
| Summary of the Community and Project Infrastructure Needs Study |
| Project Labour and Workforce Effects |
| Summary of the Project Labour and Workforce Effects Study |
| Urban Growth |
| Summary of the Urban Growth Study |
| South Bruce Economy |
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Regional Services and Programs |
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Focus on Youth and Families |
Community Project Visioning Report
The Community Project Visioning Report was developed in consultation with the community and incorporates feedback and suggestions from nine workshops. This report was used to develop and inform our 36 Guiding Principles.
Community Surveys
The purpose of the 2019 Community Survey (methodological notes) was to understand awareness around the NWMO and the site selection process in the community, as well as to gather information about how to best communicate with the community.
The 2021 Community Survey asked South Bruce ratepayers about their awareness around the Project, the site selection process, willingness and the 36 Guiding Principles. The survey also asked the community about their interest in the various studies that are taking place.
Youth Engagement Strategy
The Youth Engagement Strategy (appendices) recognizes youth as the leaders of the future and acknowledges how critical it is that their voices are reflected in plans, initiatives and decisions that will directly affect them. The Strategy also seeks to empower youth and support them in the community. Register for the Monthly #NextGenNetwork event.
Working towards an informed decision for our community.
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