Next Went The Public Works Director

Relining of sanitary sewer pipes has been going on in the town for a number of years.

The process involves cleaning out the pipes and inserting a liner. The liner needs to be joined in places and that calls for an adhesive. The adhesive has a strong odour but had never before presented as a problem of odour escaping into a home.

If I recall correctly, a couple of homes were involved. One family had a child with a chronic illness. The family were understandably worried and upset

The re-lining project was being contracted out.

The Public Works Director took control immediately.

The family were housed in a hotel. Giant fans were installed in the home and whatever else was required to return the home or homes to clean and clear air.

The odour was not toxic. There was never a risk to health. But the odour was strong and offensive and frightening for a family with a sick child.

No time was wasted, no expense spared, to re-assure the family and ensure their comfort.

The incident was unexpected . Everything that needed to be done was done immediately.

The director had a reputation for fast action. His usual telephone command.

"Stop whatever you're doing and get after "this or that, whatever the need happened to be

My own experience with the Director was faultless.

None of that stopped the Mayor holding the Director responsible for the problem. Making sure no part of the blame fell on her shoulders.

A short time later,Council was informed the Public Works Director had accepted an offer of employment as Public Works Director in the City of Peterborough.

He and his wife lived in Markham. He had worked in Toronto before taking the position in Aurora. He explained , their plans were to retire to Kawartha Lakes. They would be buying a home in that area in preparation.

Discretion is a necessary attribute in the Ontario Municipal Public Service.

Last I heard,not unexpectedly, they never left Markham.

The Director is currently, perfectly, content not to be employed in Aurora.