Water damages lower level of Huron-Kinloss municipal office in Ripley

Huron-Kinloss Township is currently renting space in the old RBC Royal Bank building in Ripley, after water damaged the lower level of the municipal office earlier this month.

At the township council meeting Monday night (March 17), chief administrative officer Jodi MacArthur presented an update about the situation in her report, noting that the water damage was caused by a sump pump failure.

While remediation is expected to take about three months, all township services will continue to operate from the main office at 21 Queen Street, with no impact to the public, said MacArthur. Temporary work space has been secured, at 41 Queen Street, for affected staff, and an insurance claim has been initiated to cover the necessary repairs.

In her report, MacArthur stated that the damage was discovered Thursday morning, March 6. Staff immediately took measures to protect the building contents and remove as much of the water as possible; however, all work stations in the lower level were impacted.

A professional restoration company responded the same day and an insurance claim has been initiated for the remedial works which is expected to include replacement of flooring, drywall and some office furniture. Displayed staff will work at the old bank building and the main office, and from their home offices, where applicable.

It is expected that insurance will cover the loss, subject to the deductible.