The Municipality of the District of Lunenburg (MODL) has approved a significant funding increase to its Water Supply Upgrade Lending Program, allocating an additional $600,000 to address the growing demand from residents with dry wells.

The program provides low-interest loans to homeowners in need of well drilling and system upgrades, helping to ensure reliable access to water.

The Water Supply Upgrade Lending Program was first introduced around 2015-2016 following widespread concerns over dry wells caused by prolonged dry spells. In the past, MODL supported residents through a water coupon program, but in 2023, the municipality launched this long-term solution, offering loans up to $20,000 or 15% of a property’s assessed value. The loans are designed to be repaid over 15 years, providing a sustainable way for homeowners to address water shortages.

Originally, the program had a modest budget of about $50,000 annually, covering around three to four properties each year. However, the combination of an exceptionally dry summer and increasing weather-related challenges led to a significant increase in demand, with 31 households now on the waiting list. “The previous council had a modest budget for the well program, around $50,000 to $60,000, which could only cover three or four wells,” said Mayor Elspeth McLean-Wile. “Late last year, we saw a growing demand, with 31 people on the waiting list due to another dry summer.”

The approved $600,000 allocation will provide relief to those on the waiting list, enabling more residents to access the necessary resources to upgrade their wells and secure their water supply. This funding increase comes at a crucial time as dry wells continue to affect communities across Lunenburg County, where many households rely on private wells.

“These funds are loans, so they’ll return to the municipality over time,” Mayor McLean-Wile explained. “It’s a way to give residents the means to address their water needs and build resilience.”

By offering these low-interest loans, the program aims to provide lasting solutions to water insecurity, avoiding the temporary fixes of water couponing. “Temporary measures like couponing aren’t permanent solutions,” McLean-Wile continued. “If someone’s well isn’t meeting their needs, they need a long-term fix. Drilling a well can be expensive, and some residents might not have the means to finance it otherwise.”

The allocation of $600,000 is expected to eliminate the current backlog of 31 households, but the municipality will continue to assess the program’s needs annually. “While we may clear the backlog with this funding, there are likely to be future demands as dry seasons continue to affect wells in our area,” said McLean-Wile. “Moving forward, we’ll have to assess our budget for this program annually, as it’s unpredictable due to changing weather conditions.”

As climate change continues to impact local weather patterns, the MODL will monitor water supply needs closely and continue providing support for those affected by dry wells.