Calgary has experienced two major watermain failures in less than two years, disrupting residents and businesses, raising concerns about the City’s approach to water infrastructure planning, maintenance, and risk management. In January, Minister of Municipal Affairs Dan Williams requested materials related to Calgary’s watermain asset management that could potentially impact the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. The city has complied with the request.
“Given the recurring nature of this situation and the severe impact it is having on the daily lives of Calgarians and surrounding communities, all of whom rely on a safe, reliable water system to support their families and businesses, I believe an inspection is necessary. This decision was not taken lightly."
Inspections are an extraordinary measure used only when significant concerns warrant a more thorough review. The inspection will assess how the City of Calgary manages, administers and oversees its water infrastructure systems, and determine whether additional provincial direction or corrective action is required.
The inspection will focus on the City of Calgary’s management, administration and operational practices related to the Bearspaw South Feeder Main. This will include assessment of current practices and systems to identify areas where improvements may be needed.
David Goldie has been appointed to lead the inspection. Goldie has more than 40 years of experience in technical, operational and governance roles across Alberta’s infrastructure sectors and previously served as board chair of the Alberta Energy Regulator.
Under the Municipal Government Act, the inspector has the power to require attendance of municipal officials or any other person the inspector considers necessary to provide evidence and to produce any documents, papers, or things the inspector considers to be required. Additionally, the inspector will have the authority to engage technical experts to support the inspection process.
Quick facts
- The cost of the inspection will be covered by the province.
- The inspection is expected to take several months, and all process steps are targeted to be completed by the end of the year.
- Once the inspection is complete, the findings will be reviewed and shared publicly.