Flood Action Plan

Maria Diamantis
LJI Journalist

Sainte-Thérèse officials have presented a comprehensive flood action plan aimed at improving resilience and preparedness against future flooding events. The plan, which was introduced on February 25, outlines various measures designed to protect the city and its residents from flood risks, while emphasizing shared responsibilities between the municipal government and homeowners.
During the public meeting at the Sainte-Thérèse Cultural and Community Center, approximately one hundred residents gathered to hear details of the initiative. The document, titled Improving Resilience to Flood and Sewer Backup Risks, is now available on the city’s website. Mayor Christian Charron, accompanied by the full municipal council, Director General Christian Schryburt, and Deputy Director General Louis Tremblay, presented the action plan, expressing satisfaction with its timely release.
The plan proposes a wide-ranging approach to addressing flooding challenges. It includes the development of a floodplain mapping project for the Rivière aux Chiens, a model to assess flood recurrence levels, and a vulnerability study of the affected areas. The initiative also includes an inventory of properties that have previously been impacted by flooding or sewer backups. The feasibility of constructing flood barriers and additional pumping stations is being considered as part of the effort to enhance protective infrastructure. All proposed measures will be subject to municipal regulations and upcoming provincial guidelines regarding flood-prone areas, with an updated flood zone map expected later in 2025.
City officials also plan to strengthen meteorological monitoring using artificial intelligence, which would allow for improved weather predictions and real-time alerts to residents. Several additional emergency preparedness measures have been proposed, including the installation of backup generators at key municipal buildings, pumping stations, and the Lonergan retention basin. The city is also acquiring a new trailer-mounted pump, constructing a retention basin at the main pumping station, and establishing a permanent stormwater pumping station.
Efforts to improve communication between the municipality and residents are also included in the action plan. City officials aim to raise awareness about best practices for managing rainwater on private properties and will update informational resources to better educate homeowners on flood preparedness. The Espace Citoyen alert system is being promoted as a tool for providing timely information during emergency situations.
As part of the initiative, the city has launched an inspection and support program for property owners considered vulnerable to flooding and sewer backups. Pre-registration for the program began on March 10, and it is set to run through 2027. In 2025, inspections will be limited to 300 properties, with another 300 scheduled for 2026. Homeowners who choose to carry out flood protection upgrades following inspections may qualify for financial assistance, which would cover 70 percent of costs up to a maximum of $7,000 per building.
City officials encourage residents seeking additional information about the program or the flood action plan to contact the municipal offices.