Cornwall Ontario — The City of Cornwall has experienced a significant response for the Flood Risk Reduction Rebate – a new program launched earlier this year to assist homeowners in flooding-affected areas.

To date, over 120 applications from Cornwall homeowners have been received and rebates are being processed. There is no deadline to apply and the City is continuing to accept applications from interested homeowners.

“We are pleased with the response we’ve received so far and we’re hoping more homeowners will take advantage of this unique program,” said Tracy Gordon, Flood Risk Reduction Program Coordinator.

Through the program, eligible homeowners can receive a rebate of up to $3,600 for completing improvements such as eavestrough downspout disconnections, backwater valve installations, foundation drain disconnections and lot grading.

“The goal of the program is to reduce the risk of flooding caused by sewer back-ups and reduce the burden on the City’s sanitary sewer network,” said John St. Marseille, General Manager of Infrastructure and Municipal Works. “It also gives us a chance to have a dialogue with residents about flooding causes and protection measures.”

Cornwall resident Claude Jasmin is one such homeowner who has taken advantage of the Flood Risk Reduction Rebate. He has used the program to undertake improvements to his home, including the installation of an exterior backwater valve.

“It was really easy to apply and I had no problems at all with the application process,” said Mr. Jasmin.

“So far, uptake has been steady, and homeowners are eager to complete flood risk reduction measures,” said Ms. Gordon. “It has been informative to meet with homeowners to discuss the best solution for their home.”  

Residents who are interested in applying are asked to fill out an application form online at www.Cornwall.ca (click on the Blueprint logo near the bottom of the home page). Hard copies of the application form are also available for pick up at the Municipal Works office (1225 Ontario Street) during regular business hours (8:30 am to 4:30 pm), Monday to Friday.

After reviewing the application, a site visit will be scheduled to review the necessary lot-level plumbing corrections required. Upon completing the appropriate upgrades, a final inspection will be scheduled. The City will issue a rebate upon confirmation of work completion. The City will also provide a summary letter to the resident of upgrades undertaken.

Homeowners are advised that some upgrades under the Flood Risk Reduction Rebate Program will require permits and inspections to ensure compliance with the Ontario Building Code. This process is administered by the Building Permits Office and is separate from the Flood Risk Reduction Rebate.

Homeowners who did not experience flooding in 2010 or 2013 can still apply for the rebate program however priority will be given to those that experienced flooding or are in flooding clusters. Subject to the number and value of requests received, other non-flooded residents may be considered as well.

The rebate program is part of the Cornwall Blueprint, a comprehensive plan to deal with issues such as basement flooding reduction and environmental, water and infrastructure awareness. It serves to address two key pillars of the City of Cornwall’s Strategic Plan – Quality of Life and Efficient Services.

For additional information on the program, please visit www.Cornwall.ca and click on the Blueprint icon.