Former mayor Naheed Nenshi revealed that neither he nor the city council were informed about the high-risk status of Calgary’s water system in 2017 when the Bearspaw feeder main underwent inspection. An independent review of the catastrophic 2024 break at Bearspaw highlighted that city officials had recommended inspections of the key water feeder main in 2017, 2019, and 2022. However, these inspections were continuously postponed, leading to a lack of expert information and support for the oversight of Calgary’s water system by multiple city councils.
Nenshi, who was mayor from 2010 to 2021, mentioned that crucial information regarding the high-risk designation of the Bearspaw in 2017 did not reach him or the council. This gap in communication was acknowledged by Nenshi during an interview on CBC Radio’s “The Calgary Eyeopener.”
The 2024 break at the Bearspaw feeder main resulted in prolonged water restrictions, echoing a similar situation following another catastrophic break last week. The released independent panel report identified deep-rooted systemic challenges within Calgary’s water system spanning several decades. Nenshi acknowledged a past mistake of prioritizing growth and new infrastructure over the maintenance of existing water infrastructure during his tenure.
Acknowledging his share of responsibility, Nenshi highlighted the need for city council to delve deeper into critical issues and ask the right questions. The report emphasized the need for urgent action to secure the water supply, with the city council voting to implement all recommendations put forth by the panel.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith criticized Nenshi for not inspecting the Bearspaw after major flooding in 2013, attributing some blame for the recent water main breaks to him. Nenshi refuted these claims, pointing out the absence of feeder main breaks during his mayoral term. Discussions surrounding potential provincial oversight of Calgary’s water system ensued, with Nenshi advocating for the city’s ability to manage its water supply effectively.
Calgary’s chief administrator, David Duckworth, accepted responsibility for the current emergency situation regarding the city’s water system and pledged to implement the panel’s recommendations. The need for increased infrastructure funding to address critical maintenance issues was emphasized, with the focus shifting towards ensuring a more resilient water system for Calgary’s growing population.