Residents in Waterford have expressed concerns about a potential conflict of interest linked to a consulting firm engaged in a proposed wind farm project in their community southeast of Sussex. The issue arises from Dillon Consulting’s dual roles working for both Natural Forces, the project proponent, and the Kings Regional Service Commission, responsible for providing local governing bodies with services.
Mary Ann Coleman, a former committee chair for the Waterford Local Service District, highlighted community worries that Dillon Consulting’s involvement compromises the project’s approval process integrity. She described the situation as appalling and stated that everyone is upset about dealing with a company facing a clear conflict of interest.
The wind farm project, named the Paqt’smawei Sipu Wind Project, is co-owned by Natural Forces, Indian Island First Nation, and Mi’gmaq United Investment Network. It has received approval to construct up to 42 wind turbines approximately 200 meters tall. Construction of the initial 15 turbines may commence in the fall, following the approval of the project’s environmental impact assessment and the signing of a power purchase agreement with N.B. Power.
Tess Donohue, the project manager for Natural Forces, mentioned that Dillon Consulting has been involved in the project since 2024, preparing the environmental impact assessment. Despite concerns raised, Donohue emphasized that she does not perceive any conflict of interest, as Dillon Consulting has a history of collaboration with Natural Forces.
Efforts by CBC News to obtain responses from the service commission and Dillon Consulting regarding the conflict of interest concerns were unsuccessful. Additionally, outreach to the Kings Rural District for an interview was fruitless. This district represents the Waterford area and acts as an advisory committee to the province for residents outside of local governments.
One of the final hurdles for the wind farm project is securing a development permit from the regional service commission. Natural Forces has applied for an amendment to Waterford’s rural plan through the commission, allowing the construction of large-scale wind turbines within rural use zones, subject to government regulations, sound, and shadow guidelines.
The proposed amendment also revises the definition of dwelling units to require year-round usage, potentially excluding seasonal property owners from this category. Coleman, involved in the rural plan development, expressed concerns about the impact on the community’s character and lifestyle, particularly for seasonal property owners.
Donohue explained that excluding seasonal properties from setback requirements is common in wind farm projects due to reduced occupancy and associated risks like ice throw and noise. The commission’s planning committee has shown initial support for the amendment, forwarding it to Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy for final approval, while seeking public input on the proposed changes.