Every once in a while, wires get crossed. When there’s a lot to keep track of, mistakes happen. What matters is how we respond to them.
In this week’s Lanark Era, it was reported that I “…would advocate at council to put a trunk line for sewage down George Street, with a treatment plant on the former Kitten Mill property.”
That is incorrect. I do not support that proposal, and at this time I would actually be opposed to it.
Today I sent the following letter to the editor. To their credit, the Era responded immediately with an apology (accepted) and a commitment to correct the report next week. I thank the Era for acknowledging the error, and I commend Gena and staff for their extensive, detailed coverage of our 2026 municipal election.
Dear Editor,
The Oct. 13 Lanark Era article “Spraying, pit, communication on agenda at Highlands meeting” reports that I would advocate at council for a sewage trunk line down George Street, with a treatment plant on the former Kitten Mill property. I want to correct the record: I do not support that proposal. IN FACT I WOULD STRONGLY OPPOSE IT!
That proposal was offered to me at the September 15 Zoning Open House as one option being put forward to Council. It is not my position.
Placing a treatment plant on that site would be a mistake. It would require a sewer line carrying raw sewage across the Clyde River at the George Street bridge, which is an unnecessary risk to the river. And is a sewage facility really the first thing we want visitors to see as they enter the village?
I do want to see our water and sewage issues resolved. Ruling out a poor option is not the same as choosing a solution, though. Before I endorse any specific plan, I will keep pushing for Council to examine all available options and to consult the community properly, so that we reach a decision that serves all Lanark Highlands residents.
Sincerely,
John Foliot
Candidate, Ward 4