County lifts flooding state of emergency

Prince Edward County Mayor Robert Quaiff has lifted the state of emergency that has been in place since May 9 due to localized flooding and high water levels on the Bay of Quinte and Lake Ontario.

“The decline in water levels over the past several weeks has significantly reduced the risk of serious harm to people or substantial damage to property,” Quaiff said. “With the state of emergency lifted, we will shift our focus to ongoing recovery efforts. I commend residents for their patience and positive attitude during the spring flooding.”

Beginning next week, the County announce locations where it will position bins in several locations for residents to drop off sandbags and flood-related debris.

Sandbags will continue to be available until June 30 at locations in Wellington (111 Belleville St.), Ameliasburgh (15 Coleman St.), and Picton (115 Lake St.).

Residents on a well who are concerned about contaminated drinking water can pick up bottled water at the Wellington and District Community Centre (111 Belleville St.) and the Picton Arena (375 Picton Main St.) from 8 am-8 pm. If you have questions about drinking water, contact Hastings and Prince Edward Public Health at 613.966.5500 or visit their website.

The Canadian Red Cross is providing direct financial assistance to households affected by the flooding. Visit www.redcross.ca/gethelp for more information. The Canadian Red Cross has also published a flood recovery guide to assist residents impacted by the high water levels.

Water still higher than usual at the Outlet Beach at Sandbanks, but continues to recede. Friends of Sandbanks photo