Horse Lake Water Treatment Alternative Approval Process

Project Overview

The Cariboo Regional District (CRD) is advancing plans to construct a new water treatment plant for the Horse Lake Community Water System. This upgrade will improve drinking water quality and system reliability for residents connected to the system.

The new treatment plant will address long-standing water quality concerns, including naturally occurring manganese that can cause water discolouration and affect taste. The upgraded system will help ensure safe, high-quality drinking water that meets provincial standards.

Project Funding and Borrowing

If adopted, Bylaw No. 5511 will authorize the borrowing of up to $175,000 over a ten-year term, representing approximately 25% of the total project cost to address elevated manganese levels in the source water.

The remaining 75% of the project cost will be funded through the Community Works Fund.

This borrowing will enable the Cariboo Regional District to proceed with construction of the treatment plant to ensure the community’s water system meets current health and safety standards.

If the proposed borrowing is approved, the loan authorized under Bylaw No. 5511 would add approximately $127.86 per parcel per year to the existing parcel tax. This would bring the total annual parcel tax to approximately $299.08 per parcel for properties connected to the water system.

About the Alternative Approval Process (AAP)

The Alternative Approval Process (AAP) allows eligible property owners and residents to indicate if they oppose the CRD’s plan to borrow funds for this project.

• If fewer than 10% of eligible electors submit forms opposing the borrowing by the deadline, the CRD may proceed with the borrowing bylaw.

• If 10% or more of eligible electors oppose the bylaw, the CRD must seek approval through a referendum before borrowing can proceed.

Details on elector eligibility, submission deadlines, and how to obtain and submit elector response forms will be available once the process officially opens.

Project Benefits

• Provides consistent, high-quality drinking water for Horse Lake residents.

• Reduces the risk of service interruptions and boil water notices.

• Extends the life and efficiency of existing infrastructure.

• Aligns with the CRD’s commitment to sustainable infrastructure and public health.

How to Participate in the Alternative Approval Process

If You Support the Project

If you support the proposed borrowing for the Horse Lake Water Treatment Plant, no action is required. Only those who oppose the borrowing need to submit an Elector Response Form. If fewer than 10% of eligible electors submit forms opposing the bylaw by the deadline, the CRD may proceed with the borrowing.

If You Do Not Support the Project

If you oppose the proposed borrowing, you must submit an Elector Response Form.

To register your opposition:

• Complete an Elector Response Form
• Fill out the form in full and ensure it is signed. Incomplete or unsigned forms cannot be accepted.
• Submit the completed form in person or by mail so it is received by the deadline of 4:00 p.m. on March 10, 2026.
• To submit a form by email, you must complete and sign the Elector Response Form, then attach a scanned copy or clear photo.of the form and send it to mailbox@cariboord.ca

If 10% or more of eligible electors submit forms opposing the bylaw, the borrowing bylaw cannot proceed under the Alternative Approval Process.