Pulpmill Road residents are petitioning the city to protect their properties along the Nechako River.
Three homeowners live on the 220 metre river-front stretch threatened by erosion. The cost of the project would be a maximum of $473,000, and area property owners would ultimately foot the bill.
"Erosion protection in this area will halt ongoing property damage which has placed local housing and businesses at risk," said report prepared for city council's Monday meeting. "The project will be timed to occur at low river levels to minimize any potential environmental impact."
But they are asking the city to establish it as a Local Area Service, which would allow the city to recoup the cost of the work over the course of 20 years through a tax levy on the properties.
"Individually, homeowners will have the option to repay the remainder of their debt in its entirety at any point during the twenty (20) year repayment period," the report said.
In order for that to happen, the city must adopt a bylaw.
"The PG Pulpmill Road Erosion Protection (Local Area Service) is in line with the city's commitment to citizen-centred service," said the staff report, which recommend council approve the bylaw changes so the owners can borrow the money needed to finance the project.
