Plan in works to subsidize cost of installing sump pumps, backwater valves
By: Bartley Kives
Posted: 01/19/2011 10:03 AM
The province and Manitoba municipalities are working on a plan to subsidize the cost of installing sump pumps and backwater valves before an expected spring flood.
Local Government Minister Ron Lemieux and Winnipeg Mayor Sam Katz said this morning their governments are working on a plan to offer financial incentives for homeowners who have yet to install the flood-protection measures.
The program will also be offered to other Manitoba municipalities, Lemieux said. Provincial officials are working out the details and hope to have the incentives ready in time for homeowners to prepare for this year’s flood.
Katz told reporters he believes the program will subsidize about 60 per cent of the cost of installing sump pumps and backwater valves in Winnipeg. Lemieux said he is not certain of the amount just yet.
Every Winnipeg home should have valves and pumps as protection against sewer backups and overland flooding, Katz said.
Lemieux said a formal announcement will come as soon as the plan is completed.
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