![Thunder Bay Rain Garden A rain garden is shaped like a bowl that soaks up runoff from a rooftop or other hard surface like a parking area. The rainwater is absorbed into the soil instead of flowing into a storm drain that empties into local streams. Rain gardens and other green infrastructure are often planted with wildflowers or other native perennials that provide homes and food for birds and insects.](https://www.netnewsledger.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/09/Rain-Garden-Tour.jpg)
THUNDER BAY – ENVIRONMENT – EcoSuperior and the City of Thunder Bay would like to remind city residents of the Residential Drainage Rebate Program. Rebates are offered by the City of Thunder Bay for installing flood prevention measures and drainage improvements such as sump pumps, storm sewer connections, and sewer backflow prevention valves. EcoSuperior is delivering the program and is accepting applications until November 30, 2018, or until funding is depleted.
Rebates are available for 50% of the invoiced costs up to $1750 for the installation of a sewage backflow prevention valve, 50% of the invoiced costs up to $1500 for sump pump/leaching pit installation, and $500 for disconnection of the weeping tile system from the City of Thunder Bay sanitary sewer. New for 2018, rebates are for 50% of the invoiced costs up to $1500 for a new connection to the city storm sewer where foundation drainage is being redirected from the sanitary sewer. Residences, not-for-profit organizations, and churches within the City of Thunder Bay are eligible for the rebate provided all taxes and water bills are in good standing.
“The application process is easy to follow and the rebates help offset a large portion of the cost associated with the upgrades,” says Will Vander Ploeg, Drainage Rebate Coordinator. “Just fill out the application form, send it to us along with a copy of the plumbing permit, inspection report, and associated receipts. We will schedule a home visit to confirm the work is done, and then process the rebate provided the paperwork is in order.”
For 2016, some rebates have been increased.
Drainage rebates are available to non-profit organizations, such as churches or co-op housing, as well as all single dwelling residences in the City of Thunder Bay. Additional funding is available for low-income seniors and people with disabilities. Rebate amounts and full details are available at www.ecosuperior.org . Homeowners who apply must have all their City of Thunder Bay accounts in good standing.
Application forms are available at EcoSuperior (562 Red River Road at Hill Street) as well as at the City’s Building Services Division office, 2nd Floor, Victoriaville Civic Centre, or can be downloaded at www.ecosuperior.org.
For further information, contact Will Vander Ploeg, Drainage Rebate Coordinator, at 624-2658 or william@ecosuperior.org.