Mayor’s report August 5

 On July 9th, sewage from the north area began to be routed to the south treatment plant. No transmission issues have been reported or identified. It will take a few weeks for the biomass at the south plant to increase to effectively digest the increased volume.

The north treatment plant tank has now been drained. 
Construction of the overflow/equalization system for the north tank installation has begun  following sludge removal. Lift stations 3 and 6 have been serviced for optimal performance. The Village, using our own forces, will undertake minor works after completion of the project.

This past weekend I attended the annual Yuquot Summerfest along with Councillor Lenahan, at Friendly Cove. It is a great opportunity to connect with the members of the Mowachaht Muchalat First Nation and I have been going for several years. This one was particularly auspicious as it marks the return of the Whaler's Shrine, a sacred site that was removed by the American Museum of Natural History in 1904. Currently it is being stored until a plan is developed to return it to the island it came from and house it within a clear structure to protect it. I also spent time in conversation with Chief Maquinna discussing many issues of mutual interest. We also visited Sanford Williams, their master carver, who will be carving a tsunami sculpture for Tahsis next year, funded by Strathcona Regional District. I also discussed with him creating a welcome carving for Tahsis, much like the one at Friendly Cove, which consists of a tall human figure with outstretched hands, palms up in a gesture of welcome

Tahsis Days was recently held and I would like to thank our staff and volunteers for their efforts in making this a success. Of note was our 'soft' opening of the long-awaited fire hall. It was also our first visit as an elected official of Aaron Gunn, who represents our federal riding now. I spent an hour with him bringing him up to speed on Tahsis issues and our vision for the future.

In June and July, the first eight kilometres of the Grease Trail was reopened between Tahsis and Woss Lake, with a further five kilometres to be completed, mostly over the 550 metre high pass. When complete, it will not only become a major tourist draw, but is also another step in the renewal of Mowachaht Muchalat culture, as it was a trade route between here and the east coast of the Island, near Port McNeill. In the work reopening this trail, a huge red cedar was found with an estimated width at the base of five metres. We have been told that the trail has songs associated with it and they will likely be unveiled during an opening ceremony by the MMFN in the future. Thanks to all the workers that have contributed to the trail's reopening so far.