Schreiber Secures $21.8 Million for New Wastewater Facility

The Township of Schreiber celebrated a historic milestone on Thursday as provincial officials announced a massive investment to modernize the community’s critical infrastructure. The funding, delivered through Ontario’s Municipal Housing Infrastructure Program, will support the construction of a brand-new wastewater treatment facility. The announcement was made at the local Recreation Centre by the Honorable Kevin Holland, who was joined by MPP Lise Vaugeois and local leaders. Despite a brief delay due to travel, Holland emphasized that the investment is vital for the long-term resilience of Northwestern Ontario. “Infrastructure like wastewater systems might not always be visible in everyday life, but it is critical to communities,” Holland stated. He noted that the new facility would replace aging infrastructure, protect public health, and provide the capacity needed for new housing and local job creation.

For local officials, the news brought a sense of immense relief. Schreiber Mayor Kevin Mullins admitted to having “many sleepless nights” wondering if the funding would come through. He described the grant as a defining moment that reflects the town’s determination and the province’s confidence in Schreiber’s future. MPP Vaugeois shared a lighthearted but telling story about the urgency of the project, recalling that when CAO Rhonda Smith first started, she received a letter warning of legal consequences if the wastewater issues weren’t addressed. “We know what it’s like being out in the bush… but that’s not what we want in our towns,” Vaugeois joked, highlighting the necessity of modern services.

The project is part of a larger provincial push, with the government recently expanding the Health and Safety Water Stream by $700 million to assist more municipalities with similar needs. Mayor Mullins concluded the event by thanking the administrative team and council for their years of advocacy. He noted that the new plant will also help protect the “pristine waters of Lake Superior” for generations to come. The township will hold a public meeting on April 7th at 7:00 PM at the Recreation Centre to present the project plans and details to residents.