Westbank First Nation continues to experience increased demand on the IR 9 water system as a result of sustained population growth and development. Following technical review, WFN Council has implemented a temporary hold on new Stage 2 development approvals on IR 9. Certain components of the water system are currently operating at or near their practical capacity limits during peak demand conditions. Protecting service levels for existing residents, including maintaining required fire protection standards, remains Council’s top priority.
Recent infrastructure upgrades, including the installation of Pump 5 at IR 9, are intended to improve system redundancy and support overall system performance once fully commissioned. While this work represents an important step forward, Council is taking a prudent and measured approach to introducing new demands on the system while commissioning activities are completed and broader system capacity planning is underway.
A limited number of previously approved developments will be permitted to connect and have already been contacted directly. Building permits for existing IR 9 developments and tenant improvements will continue to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.
These temporary measures apply across all IR 9 lands and will remain in place until Council is satisfied, based on technical evidence, that additional development can be accommodated safely and responsibly.
WFN is working with an external consultant to update the Water Master Plan, which will outline short- and long-term solutions. Further updates will be provided in early spring upon receipt of the consultant’s preliminary findings.