December 2, 2011

Dear resident,

As you know, the City has recently received complaints of odours related to the new organic waste facility on Dunlop Drive. We want to apologize to residents for the unpleasant odours and assure you we are taking every practical step to investigate and address them with the design-builder and operator of the facility.

The facility is currently being commissioned and control of the plant has not yet been transferred from the designer-builder, Maple Reinders Constructors Ltd., to the City of Guelph. The City has contracted with a private-sector company, a subsidiary of Maple Reinders, to operate the facility.

When the City receives odour complaints, a rigorous process is triggered that involves the City, Ministry of the Environment, and Maple Reinders. This includes an immediate investigation and the reporting of preliminary findings to the Ministry of the Environment.

On November 25, the City stopped receiving organic waste to enable Maple Reinders to develop an action plan. Specifically, the City is requiring Maple Reinders to conduct a detailed review of the facility’s air containment and odour management systems to identify any improvements and ensure the facility functions as designed and complies with all requirements. The results of Maple Reinders’ action plan will be shared with the public.

The City will be working with Maple Reinders, in consultation with the Ministry and a citizens’ advisory group, to monitor and manage any future odours.

Office of the Mayor

City Hall1 Carden StGuelph, ON

CanadaN1H 3A1

T 519-837-5643TTY 519-826-9771

F 519-822-8277E mayor@guelph.ca

guelph.ca

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While the technology used at the organics plant is tried and true, the facility itself is new. We are committed to addressing the issues and ensuring the facility functions as intended.

For more information and ongoing updates, visit guelph.ca/waste. You may also contact the City’s Solid Waste Resources at 519-767-0598 or waste@guelph.ca.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work with Maple Reinders and other partners to resolve this issue.

Sincerely,

Karen FarbridgeMayor