SB Council Formally Receives Referendum Results Declaring SB a Willing Host for NWMO Project

For Immediate Release
November 12, 2024

SOUTH BRUCE, ON – Council formally received the results of the South Bruce referendum, at a special meeting on November 12, 2024. Fifty-one per cent of votes were cast in favour of the Municipality of South Bruce declaring itself a willing host for the Nuclear Waste Management Organization’s proposed Deep Geological Repository (DGR).

69% of voters participated, surpassing the 50% threshold required under provincial law for a binding referendum result.

“Thanks to strong community participation in the Referendum we have a legally binding conclusion to South Bruce’s willingness process,” said Mayor Mark Goetz. “The Municipality will continue to share information with the community and prepare for next steps in the NWMO’s site selection process.”

Next steps include delivering formal notice to the NWMO of South Bruce’s willingness to host the Project. According to the Hosting Agreement between South Bruce Council and NWMO, the Municipality will receive a $4 million milestone payment for delivering a determination of community’s willingness.

There is still no guarantee that the Project will be sited in South Bruce. The Municipality respects the willingness processes of other communities participating in the site selection process and looks forward to the NWMO’s selection of a preferred site.

Community Liaison Committee meetings, tours of Ontario Power Generation’s Nuclear Sustainability Services – Western Facility, and other educational opportunities will continue to take place for community members interested in furthering Project knowledge. Follow Municipal social media channels or visit the Municipal website to stay up to date on upcoming opportunities.

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