The Municipality of Lambton Shores has launched a grant program in an effort to reduce the risk of sewage backups and basement flooding for homeowners.
The Sump Pump Disconnection and Backwater Valve Installation Grant Program offers two subsidy streams, both up to $2,500.
Director of Public Works Nick Verhoeven said like many other areas, the municipality has been plagued by some intense rainstorms that have overwhelmed the sanitary sewer system.
"We've experienced some pretty intense storms over the last few years. People have requested this kind of program," he said. "Some other local areas have done it and we felt it was time to do that here in Lambton Shores."
The Sump Pump Disconnect subsidy aims to financially support eligible homeowners who allow an authorized contractor to disconnect their sump pump from the sanitary sewers. Verhoeven said this process will allow excess water to be redirected and will ideally reduce the overall strain on the sewer system during significant rainfall events.
The other available subsidy is for homeowners who have a professional install a backwater valve in their plumbing system. As stated in a media release, a backwater valve can prevent sewage or wastewater from flowing back into their property during heavy rainfall events or when the municipal sewage system malfunctions.
Application forms and further details about eligibility can be found on the municipality's website.
Verhoeven said applications for reimbursement will be reviewed continuously throughout the year.
Municipal staff will report back to council with findings from the grant program as part of the 2025 budget process.
"Our plan is to report back to council with the uptake for the year and make adjustments from there," he said. "In our view, this will be an ongoing thing. Hopefully, the uptake is good and we continue to fund it and take care of some of these problems."
Lambton Shores council budgeted $50,000 for the grant program in 2024.