Chair of Metro Vancouver Board Resists Calls for Disclosure of Information on North Shore Wastewater Plant Project

The North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant project in Metro Vancouver has been surrounded by controversy and rising costs since Acciona Wastewater Solutions LP was selected to build the plant in 2017. After Acciona was terminated from the project in 2022 for allegedly not meeting contractual obligations, PCL and AECOM were brought in to complete the project. The estimated cost of the project has now ballooned to $3.86 billion, up from the original $700 million estimate.

Metro Vancouver board chair Mike Hurley has defended the organization’s transparency regarding the project, stating that information has been consistently shared with the board, media, and the public. Despite this, some councillors have expressed a desire for more information. Hurley emphasized that information has been shared through press conferences, newsletters, and the project website. Some information has been kept confidential due to ongoing litigation with the previous contractor, Acciona.

An independent performance audit of the project has been approved by the board to ensure accountability moving forward. Early works construction by PCL and AECOM revealed over 1,500 concrete deficiencies from Acciona’s work, as well as discrepancies in the plant’s design. A thorough cost reassessment was conducted to provide a realistic updated cost estimate for the project.

Metro Vancouver remains committed to delivering a high-quality wastewater treatment plant that will protect the health of residents and the environment for generations to come. As the project progresses, it is essential for all stakeholders to remain informed and engaged to ensure accountability and success.

Source link

Metro Vancouver Board Cancels Travel Plans as North Shore Audit Initiated

Metro Vancouver Takes Action on Troubled North Shore Wastewater Project

Metro Vancouver’s board of directors has recently passed a resolution to confirm the initiation of an independent performance audit of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program. This decision comes in response to legitimate concerns raised about the project, with the goal of identifying any issues and preventing similar problems in the future.

In addition to the performance audit, Metro Vancouver has announced a pause on international travel for board directors and committee members. The board intends to carry out a governance review to improve performance, clarify roles and responsibilities, and review policies related to travel, conferences, and hospitality.

The performance audit of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program will involve retaining reputable external legal counsel to advise the board. This legal counsel will work with lawyers representing Metro Vancouver in ongoing litigation related to the project to develop a scope of work, terms of reference, and a process for selecting an independent reviewer.

The North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program consists of three key projects: construction of a new treatment plant, construction of conveyance infrastructure, and preliminary design for the decommissioning of the current Lions Gate Wastewater Treatment Plant. The estimated cost of the project has risen to $3.86 billion from an original estimate of $700 million, leading to the termination of the contract with Acciona Wastewater Solutions LP due to rising costs and delays.

In 2023, a task force was established to review the project’s history and explore options for completion. Multiple cost estimates were conducted, and an external expert panel reviewed the process and cost update to inform the final cost estimate. Moving forward, Metro Vancouver is collaborating with the new construction manager, PCL, to continue early work, while AECOM will complete the plant design.

The board’s proactive steps towards transparency, accountability, and improvement demonstrate a commitment to addressing issues and delivering successful projects in the future. By conducting a thorough performance audit and governance review, Metro Vancouver aims to ensure the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program operates efficiently, effectively, and within budget.

Source link

Project Manager / Technical Advisor – North Shore Environmental Consultants Inc. – Calgary, AB

Company: North Shore Environmental Consultants Inc.

Location: Calgary, AB

Job description: North Shore Environmental Consultants Inc. is an employee-owned, progressive environmental company that specializes in providing environmental management and consulting services. Since our inception in 2002, North Shore has grown and succeeded throughout western and northern Canada by providing cost efficient and effective solutions to the complex environmental challenges faced by today’s industries. By keeping in line with our core values as well as maintaining focus on both our employee and industry relationships, North Shore will continue to be a leader amongst its peers.We offer our employees a team-based working environment with flexible working arrangements, attractive compensation and field work incentives, performance-based bonus programs, a comprehensive health benefit package, and numerous paid perks. North Shore promotes and encourages its employees to continue their career advancement through continuous education, competency development, and memberships within recognized professional organizations. Therefore, North Shore provides generous support to its employees through paid training and educational programs, reimbursement of annual professional fees, and ensuring regular attendance opportunities at various conferences and industry events.North Shore is currently seeking a Project Manager and Technical Advisor for our Biophysical Team, based out of our Calgary, Alberta office. North Shore’s Biophysical division provides an overall environmental planning and management approach for new developments and operational programs. Key services include regulatory approval applications, pre-disturbance site assessments and environmental monitoring. The successful candidate will have a diverse skillset in multiple environmental disciplines and will be responsible to oversee a variety of environmental projects pertaining to wildlife (terrestrial, avian and aquatic), soils, vegetation, and wetland assessments. The position will also allow for growth and expansion of services in the candidates area of expertise. The position is predominantly office-based but some inter-office and field travel is anticipated.Key Responsibilities:

  • Work closely with a multi-disciplinary team of professionals including Agrologists, Air Quality Specialists, Biologists, Engineers, Foresters, and Hydrogeologists.
  • Prepare, review, and edit technical proposals, regulatory applications, and reports.
  • Stay current on the applicable provincial and federal legislation and general trends in the technical field.
  • Under the supervision of the Biophysical Manager, coordinate field programs and oversee the execution of the field work.
  • Assist with project approvals, scheduling/workforce planning, monitor budget compliance, oversee the completion of day-to-day deliverables, and implement health and safety policies.
  • Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior staff.
  • Develop quality scopes of work, cost estimates, and schedules relating to regulatory approval applications, pre-disturbance site assessments, and environmental monitoring.
  • Ensure the completion and accuracy of project deliverables.
  • Assist with the preparation and development of best practices, standards, and procedures for our clients to mitigate project risks and support operations.
  • Support the growth of the biophysical division by developing relationships with existing and future clients as well as government and regulatory agencies.

Qualifications:

  • Five plus (5+) years of related consulting experience.
  • B.Sc. or M.Sc. degree in a related field.
  • Professional accreditation in Alberta; preferably a member of the Alberta Institute of Agrologists (P.Ag.) or Alberta Society of Professional Biologists (P.Biol).
  • Well versed in Microsoft Office.
  • Proven success managing multiple projects and clients.
  • Experience managing multi-disciplinary projects and personnel.
  • Working knowledge of the Environmental Protection and Enhancement Act, Water Act, Alberta Wildlife Act, Public Lands Act, Species at Risk Act, Migratory Bird Convention Act, and the Master Schedule of Standards of Conditions.
  • Detail-oriented with strong time management and leadership skills.
  • Effective technical writing skills, including report and proposal preparation, and the experience to provide technical reviews and edits.
  • Highly organized and have the ability to prioritize multiple tasks.
  • Experience with client liaison and potential business development.

Preference will be given to candidates with previous project management experience relating to biology or environmental sciences and relevant oil and gas, renewable energy, infrastructure or construction experience. Working knowledge of the AEP and AER project approval process including familiarity with provincial and federal legislation and regulations will also be considered an asset. Compensation is commensurate with education and experience.North Shore Environmental Consultants Inc. supports a shared commitment to a Representative Workforce that is respectful and reflective of all staff and clients. North Shore strives to build diversity among our staff to increase our ability to provide high quality service to our diverse client base.Please submit your resume via email to We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those considered for an interview will be contacted. For more information about North Shore, please visit our website at
North Shore Environmental Consultants Inc. is an employee-owned environmental company that provides management and consulting services in western and northern Canada. They are currently seeking a Project Manager and Technical Advisor for their Biophysical Team in Calgary, Alberta. The successful candidate will have a diverse skillset in multiple environmental disciplines and be responsible for overseeing various environmental projects. Qualifications include a related degree, professional accreditation, and experience in managing projects and clients. Compensation is based on education and experience. North Shore promotes diversity and encourages a respectful work environment. Interested applicants can submit their resume via email.
Title: Administrative Assistant

Location: Edmonton, AB, Canada

Job Type: Full-time

Company: Wine Club

Job Description:

We are seeking a detail-oriented and organized Administrative Assistant to join our team at Wine Club in Edmonton. The successful candidate will provide administrative support to our team, including answering phone calls, managing emails, coordinating schedules, handling office supplies and equipment, and assisting with various projects as needed.

Responsibilities:

– Answer and direct phone calls in a professional manner
– Manage incoming and outgoing emails
– Schedule and coordinate meetings and appointments
– Maintain office supplies inventory and order new supplies as needed
– Handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion
– Assist with special projects and events as required
– Perform general administrative duties, such as filing, photocopying, and data entry
– Provide excellent customer service to clients and visitors
– Other duties as assigned

Qualifications:

– High school diploma or equivalent
– Proven experience as an administrative assistant or in a similar role
– Strong organizational and time management skills
– Excellent written and verbal communication skills
– Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
– Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively
– Strong attention to detail and accuracy
– Positive attitude and a willingness to learn
– Prior experience in the wine industry is an asset but not required

If you meet the requirements and are looking for a challenging and rewarding career opportunity, please apply today. We look forward to reviewing your application.

Expected salary:

Job date: Thu, 09 May 2024 07:24:54 GMT

Carpenter: Shore Contracting (London) Ltd – Shore Contracting (London) Ltd – Fingal, ON

Company: Shore Contracting (London) Ltd

Location: Fingal, ON

Job description: Who We Are
Shore Contracting (London) Ltd. in London, ON is seeking skilled and experienced Carpenters to join our team. Duties vary with each job but would typically include various rough framing duties, reading blueprints, exterior finishes and some roofing.Duties and Responsibilities

  • Reading blueprints
  • Measures and marks surface to layout work, according to blueprints and drawings, and according to building code
  • Determine and estimate project materials and requirements
  • Construct building structures and frameworks, including but not limited to walls, floors, windows, doors, stairs etc.
  • Measure, cut, shape, and join wood materials
  • Frame floor systems, wall and roof trusses
  • Sheeting of a roof
  • Back framing
  • detail oriented is extremely important
  • manual dexterity, physical stamina and strength essential
  • English

Vacances:

  • 6 vacancies available

Application Contact InformationCompany Name: Shore Contracting (London) Ltd
Contact Name: Steve Shore – Owner
Telephone: 5192005748
Email Address:
Company Website:
Shore Contracting (London) Ltd. in London, ON is looking for skilled Carpenters to join their team. Responsibilities include reading blueprints, measuring and marking surfaces, estimating materials, constructing building structures, and more. Applicants must be detail-oriented, have manual dexterity, physical stamina, strength, and English proficiency. 6 vacancies are available. Contact Steve Shore for more information.
The job description outlined in the provided website is for a “Customer Service Representative” position based in Mississauga, Ontario. Some of the key responsibilities include:

– Handling inbound calls and emails from customers in a professional manner
– Providing product information and assistance with customer inquiries
– Troubleshooting and resolving customer concerns
– Processing orders and returns accurately
– Maintaining records of customer interactions and transactions
– Collaborating with other departments to ensure customer satisfaction
– Meeting and exceeding customer service targets and goals

The ideal candidate should have excellent communication and problem-solving skills, be proficient in Microsoft Office applications, and have previous customer service experience. A high school diploma or equivalent is required, and fluency in French is an asset.

Expected salary:

Job date: Wed, 22 May 2024 03:05:18 GMT

North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant set to resume construction with $3.86B budget

The North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program in North Vancouver is set to resume construction after undergoing a comprehensive review by a Metro Vancouver Board task force. The program will come with a new multibillion-dollar price tag, estimated at $3.86 billion to complete, with the construction of the treatment plant expected to be substantially complete by 2030.

The necessity of this program is clear, as building a new wastewater treatment plant is essential to comply with federal regulations and protect human health and the environment. The decision to restart construction comes after Metro Vancouver terminated its contract with Acciona Wastewater Solutions Ltd. and worked tirelessly to address design and construction deficiencies.

The significant increase in cost since the initial estimate 13 years ago can be attributed to various factors such as market conditions, inflation, and labor costs. Metro Vancouver is committed to finding solutions to ensure that the program is completed successfully and that residents are not unduly burdened by increased property taxes and utility rates.

Moving forward, Metro Vancouver will confirm a contract to complete the plant construction, with PCL continuing early works and AECOM finishing the plant design. The region is also working on a long-term financial plan to demonstrate the need for financial support from provincial and federal governments for infrastructure projects like these.

Overall, the restart of the North Shore Wastewater Treatment Plant Program signifies a commitment to environmental protection and regulatory compliance, while also addressing concerns around costs and financial impact on residents. With careful planning and strategic partnerships, Metro Vancouver is paving the way for a successful and sustainable future in wastewater treatment.

Source link