A brief update: Signatures are still coming in , although most citizens stil don't seem to even be aware of this test! We have not yet been informed of an accurate date that it starting. According to sources in the water department , everything is in place to begin adding NaoH , and it is slated to begin in January, however local news media reports had also mentioned December . TBWW has asked for the start date. Our "Letter to the Mayor " (found here a few stories down) has been posted on the website of the infamous online writer ,"The Opinionated Bastard." He has written about the local lead issue in previous articles, which can also be found on his website : http://www.opinionatedbastard.ca/?s=Lead+pipes Thunder Bay Water Watch (TBWW ) was contacted by community members upset at the lack of accountability or answers and who were , among other ideas ,discussing holding a holding a rally . TBWW was also contacted by an individual who sent a letter to City Council members asking for answers. He received a response from Mayor Keith Hobbs , which is posted below . To date, TBWW has not have received a response to our letter/ petition , sent to Mayor ,Council and the MOE , Glenn Murray. We have received some very positive support from The Council of Canadians who are aware of and keenly following this story. Maude Barlow is abreast of this news. There has been a wonderful meeting with a very large group of Current River residents living in the affected area . They all express strong opposition to the plan and want to discuss implementing other options. They want to ask Ward councillor Andrew Foulds for a meeting. We are also in production ,on a video , in which local residents, especially in the test zone, will share their thoughts , as they have felt very stifled & unheard regarding this story. This video will also be recorded as an online resource and to serve as a historic archive for the land /water use of the Current River Ward. Finally, the response today , Nov. 21, from Mayor Keith Hobbs : --------------------------- "Actually I asked my Acting City Manager for an update on this issue after I received your e-mail. I want to be briefed on what this chemical is and if it is a necessary way to go. Personally, I would like to see a lead pipe replacement program put in place. Will keep you posted. Keith P.S. Thanks for voting for me." ----------------------------------------------------------------- Ok thats it for now folks. Stay warm, enjoy the new snow, bless the water.keep it clean -TBWW A call out to interested people to help work on this campaign , you are welcome ! TBaywaterwatch@gmail.com