Hub Staff

The iconic Port Elgin breakwall and its poor condition was brought up to Saugeen Shores Council in a staff information report during the Committee of a Whole meeting January 23. The information report surmised that Town staff have received a number of public concerns regarding the condition of the breakwall, which is owned by the Fisheries and Oceans Canada (FO); and is managed by the Town under the Harbour Agreement.

The report states that Town staff breakwall’s deteriorating condition was escalated as a result of the severe winter in 2014. It is reported to be uneven with pot holes, tripping hazards, with sections of exposed rebar and migration of concrete. The report clarifies that Town staff, following a year of attempts, have not been successful in negotiations on a remediation plan with the FO.

After inspection, Town staff showed two potential options to councillors. The first option would see the Town repair the existing infrastructure; with the second option closing the breakaway to pedestrian traffic. The information report states that the Town’s insurance provider highly recommends that the risk to all patrons be reduced “by barricading the breakaway from future usage and reduce the possibility of potential liability.”

Staff insisted that conversations with DFO and Staff will continue until a fiscally responsible agreement is made, at which time Staff will make a recommendation to Council.

Following the report, Councillor Neil Menage asked if Town staff could look into a third option while waiting on the FO to act on the rehabilitation of their infrastructure. Menage wondered if placing a wooden boardwalk over damaged parts of the breakwall would be seen as a safety improvement. He also stated that the cement boardwalk is more than just a pedestrian walkway, but that it also rests in shallow, safe water, suitable for young families.

Deputy Mayor Luke Charbonneau wondered if Council could get “a little bit aggressive” with the Federal Government. “If we could at least send them a letter saying this [breakwall] is their infrastructure, they’re letting it wash into the lake. They own it and it’s crumbling; it’s falling to pieces and it has been forever. I think at minimum we could send them a letter.” Charbonneau said later in the evening, “all the noise we can make is better than no noise at all.”

Councillor Dave Myette stated that he would be “very, very, remised” to support any closure to the breakwall calling it a significant recreational aspect.