The proposed Downtown District Energy System would optimize the system already in place at Sinclar Group Forest Products’ Lakeland Mills operation to burn sawmill residues with greater efficiency and reduced emissions. Hot water would be piped to several downtown buildings to provide heat to them and meet their hot water needs. The plant and equipment, including state of the art emissions controls, would be installed at the Lakeland mill and owned by the City. Lakeland would supply the wood fibre and maintain and operate the plant and equipment.

The proposed downtown district energy system is subject to successful completion of a federal environmental assessment process and alternate approval process. The public will have opportunities to provide feedback during the environmental assessment, which will occur over the next 60 days.

Alternate Approval Process:

• June 7- Council approved alternate approval process
• June 11- First notice in newspaper
• June 18- Second notice in newspaper
• July 21; 4:00pm- Deadline for recieving electoral response forms
• August 9- Report results of alternate approval process to Council

The proposed Downtown District Energy System would:

• reduce particulate emissions in the city airshed
• permit the City and its customers to meet greenhouse gas reduction goals
• reduce the City's reliance on non-renewable fossil fuels
• help position the City as a leader in bioenergy application
• assist with energy security and stability
• keep energy related funds in the community
• assist with downtown renewal
• generate non-tax revenue for the City