Blind River Councillor Jim Dunbar is looking for information pertaining to the Blind River Dam co-generation station.
Coun. Dunbar made the request for more information about costs and possible income coming from the electrical power generated from waterworks in the community and operated by municipal utility company, North Shore Power Group (NSPG).
The issue was raised during Monday evening’s council meeting regarding the sale of electrical power by NSPG to Hydro One from the dam.
In his motion, Coun. Dunbar pointed out that since NSPG took over operation of water power in Blind River, expenses to the town have gone from $5,901 to a projected budgeted expense this year of $109,635.
He wants more information for review by council regarding the amount of revenue or savings to the municipality over the past seven years.
Based on the findings, Coun. Dunbar said council “will make an honest assessment as to whether this dam is a fiscally responsible venture to operate with taxpayers’ dollars.”
"I and some of the rest of council have been asked about this dam, questions as what does this dam generate for the municipality, or if the dam actually is generating this moment."
Coun. Dunbar said he has received different answers to the questions over the past five years.
“I believe there are some serious questions that should be answered,” he said.
If the numbers and information are answered it will make it easier for council to make and informed decision, he said.
Council approved the motion.
Mayor Sally Hagman told ElliotLakeToday later in the week that she expects NSPG president Graeme Lowry to meet with council to address the issues raised by Coun. Dunbar.