The decommissioning of the Brentwood Reservoir will soon become a reality.
According to the Town of Strathmore, upgrades to the Wildflower Reservoir are needed to remove the Brentwood Reservoir.
"This includes upgrades to mechanical, electrical, and building at the Wildflower Reservoir, it also includes distribution upgrades in Maplewood," the town said in a release.
Council approved administration to explore financing to finish construction upgrades at the Wildflower Reservoir.
The first reading of the bylaw was held in January.
Riley Brolly, manager of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting with the town spoke to council on Wednesday, April 2.
According to administration, the bylaw would allow the town to get a loan of $5.45 million at an annual interest rate of no more than 5.5 per cent over 25 years for the project.
Deputy Mayor Debbie Mitzner asked if the land would be sold and where the funds would go once the Brentwood Reservoir is decommissioned.
Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) Kevin Scoble said the funds would be directed to the Land Reserve.
Councillor Brent Wiley brought forward a motion that council give second reading to the bylaw.
"This is the kind of infrastructure project that I'm happy to support, even if it requires borrowing," said Wiley.
Councillor Denise Peterson also supported the motion, touting the importance of having a dependable water resource for the town.
"It is a huge cost, but it is a necessary one, and it will sustain our community into the future."
The motion was passed unanimously by council.
Councillor Melissa Langmaid moved for third reading, which was also approved unanimously.
Town staff said the project to decommission the Brentwood Reservoir is expected to be finished by 2026.