CLC Learns About Municipal Engagement Through the Site Selection Process and Learning Opportunities

SOUTH BRUCE, ON – At the Community Liaison Committee (CLC) meeting April 4^th, the South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Team (SBNET) reviewed past and ongoing engagement initiatives from the Municipality regarding the Nuclear Waste Management Organization (NWMO) Project.

The SBNET is a department within the Municipality of South Bruce that supports the CLC in fulfilling its mandate by connecting with, providing educational opportunities to, listening to and building capacity in the community. The presentation by staff reviewed efforts in each of the areas described.

The most consistent platform the municipality uses to connect with the community is CLC meetings and a weekly ad in local newspapers. Further communication comes from social media channels, mailers to all households, the municipal website, public events such as Forums and open houses, and youth engagement such as the #NextGenNetwork initiative.

Staff described educational opportunities such as expert subject matters experts, studies, tours and trips.

An important aspect of the SBNET’s purpose is listening to the community.  Surveys, CLC questions and answers, Switchboard and community consultation events have yielded meaningful input that the SBNET has incorporated into their operations.  For example, the community has demonstrated that household mailers, online sources, and in-person events are the preferred method of learning about the Project. Learning opportunities continue to be offered by the Municipality through the SBNET, as well as by the NWMO and other organizations.

The NWMO has committed capital to support the Municipality in numerous community services, infrastructure projects, training and more. Funding for these ventures is provided through the Multi-Year Funding Agreement, Near-Term Investment Fund, Community Well-Being Fund and the Early Investment in Education and Skills Fund.

During the presentation and in a report later in the meeting, staff highlighted details about the upcoming South Bruce Nuclear Exploration Forum: Safety and Opportunities being held May 15^th at the Mildmay Carrick Recreation Centre. The Forum is a free, in-person event that will feature panel presentations and exhibition area where residents can talk to subject matter experts about topics related to the NWMO Project, with a focus on deep geological repository safety and potential opportunities. Additional information about the event can be found on the municipal website at www.southbruce.ca/Forum. Registration is strongly recommended.

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