Consultation to run alongside tender process for Perth Environmental Services garage
PERTH — Perth residents are being assured they will have a chance to weigh in before any final contract is signed for the town’s proposed Environmental Services garage, following a detailed discussion at the April 21 council meeting that emphasized transparency and public input.
During the meeting, councillors pressed staff to ensure meaningful consultation, particularly for nearby residents who may be most affected by the project. Coun. Gary Waterfield underscored the importance of allowing residents to review plans in person, ask questions, and raise concerns related to safety, environmental impact and neighbourhood effects.
In response, Cathy McNally, director of community services, said multiple opportunities for public engagement are being arranged. An on-site visit is planned to allow residents to walk the space, view design drawings and speak directly with staff and project representatives.
Additional outreach will include a broader public open house, along with notifications through mail-outs, social media and the town’s website to ensure wide awareness.
McNally also clarified how public feedback will factor into the project timeline. While the town intends to proceed with issuing the tender to stay on schedule, consultation will take place at the same time. Input gathered from residents and other parties will be reviewed before a final contract is awarded.
“The tender will go out,” McNally said, “but concurrently, input from citizens will be considered prior to a contract being signed.”
That approach, she said, allows the town to maintain project momentum while still leaving room to incorporate community-driven adjustments where feasible. Potential changes could include safety features such as signage or crosswalks, or site modifications such as fencing, depending on the feedback received.
“I concur that there needs to be further discussion, analysis and consultation. We’re spending $4 million of taxpayers’ money. We need to get it right. We need to get it right for the community, and we need to get it right for our staff who are working in that facility,” said Coun. Isabel Anne McRae, reflecting the sentiment around the council table.
The proposed facility, intended to support municipal operations for years to come, is about 90 per cent through the design phase. Staff said combining market pricing from the tender process with public feedback will give council a clearer picture before any final decisions are made.
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