By Pepper Parr
July 19th, 2024
BURLINGTON, ON
It was better than nothing – and some of the information was very useful.
It was the congratulating staff for the wonderful work they did – when it was terrible.
The time spent on getting to an Urgent Business matter that wasn’t on the agenda was just plain irresponsible. Rain was falling on the streets while coouncil dithered.
The City Response was disappointing. Communications seemed to have put their phones on hold. There was nothing in the way of media releases.
In the lengthy article we did (link below) on the Council meeting it becomes clear that some people just didn’t know what they were doing.
One can imagine that Service Burlington was swamped with calls. That’s why they are in place – to take calls – and if things move to a crisis mode one would hope that staff were trained to deal with that kind of situation.
Kearns deserves credit for getting something out. She appears to have missed the photo op that took place on Cavendish near the 407 ETR overpass. The Mayor was there – you weren’t surprised at that were you?
The report that follows came out of ward 2 Councillor’s office. Lisa Kearns was the Councillor who asked the questions that needed to be asked at the Tuesday Council meeting and pressed for the Special Council Meeting scheduled for the 19th
Kearns got it right when she thanked everyone who reached out to support their neighbours, especially those assisting families impacted by the flooding. “Your acts of kindness truly reflect the spirit of our community. Whether you checked in on a neighbour or extended a helping hand to someone out of town, your compassion has not gone unnoticed.”
The useful information included:
To help you stay informed and be prepared, here are some key resources:
Reporting Flooding
Basement Flooding: Contact 311 to report.
Street/City Property Flooding or Downed Trees: Call Service Burlington at 905-335-7777 or email city@burlington.ca.
Window/Door Flooding: Also contact Service Burlington.
The ground was soaked, unable to absorb the water – it then takes the course of least resistance. This picture is from ward 3.
Register with Halton Region: Call 311 to register your flooding incident with Halton Region. Despite high call volumes, it’s essential to hold and report your situation for assessment and planning. Halton Region Public Works staff are working swiftly to review and follow up on each case.
Safety Precautions
* Immediate Danger: Call 911.
* Children and Pets: Keep them out of the affected area until cleanup is done.
* Electrical Safety: If water is near electrical outlets or panels, consider turning off your electricity. Consult your hydro company or an electrician as needed.
* Gas Safety: If you smell gas, leave immediately and contact your gas provider.
* Plumbing Use: Avoid using toilets or sinks until the source of the backup is identified.
* Food Safety: Do not consume potentially contaminated food.
Enhanced Waste Collection
To support clean-up efforts, between Monday, July 22, and Friday, August 2, in addition to regular waste service, Halton Region will be providing enhanced curbside waste collection services to all residents who have reported property flooding to Halton Region as follows:
- Garbage – limits temporarily waived, no bag tags required, collected weekly on regular collection days for the next two weeks
- Bulk items – limits temporarily waived, size limits and acceptable items (e.g., furniture, carpet/flooring etc.) still apply, collected weekly on regular collection days for the next two weeks
To receive this service, you must report your flooding to the Region of Halton by calling 311.
Helpful Links from Region of Halton
Enhanced Basement Flooding Prevention Subsidy Program
Basement Flooding Mitigation Program
Taking Action – Wastewater (Sewage) Backups in Homes
Insurance Assistance: The Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is available to help with insurance questions. Phone: 1-844-227-5422 * Email: ONCIC@ibc.ca – * Website: Information on filing a claim is available.
Contact your insurance provider, document the damage with photos, and follow their instructions, which may include sending an adjuster or recommending repair services.
Travel and Safety Around the City
Do not drive or walk on flooded roads.
Immediate Danger: Call 911.
Private Property Flooding: Call 311.
Public Property Flooding: Call 905-335-7777 or email city@burlington.ca.
Flood Cleanup
City crews are clearing flooded areas. Homeowners should act quickly and safely. The Canadian Red Cross offers detailed flood cleanup and recovery guidance on their website.
Mental Health Support: Flood recovery can be stressful. Distress Centre Halton offers 24/7 support at 905-681-1488.
Newcomer Services: If you are new to Canada and needing support, please reach out to HMC Connections
My office is here to assist you with any concerns or questions you may have. Please don’t hesitate to email us at Ward2@burlington.ca. We’re committed to supporting you through this recovery process.
Related news story.
I follow about six local groups on Facebook so receive banner alerts on my smart devices, there were people asking for advice or help and people offering the same free of charge, one company had its crew answering callouts also free of charge, it was heart warming.
Yes, thanks Lisa. It was a choice of providing the right questions and the right information to citizens or doing a photo op. Thanks for making the right choice.
Thanks Lisa, finally something useful.