Residents in Waterford have expressed concerns about a potential conflict of interest involving a consulting firm associated with a proposed wind farm project in their community southeast of Sussex. The issue arises from Dillon Consulting’s dual involvement with both Natural Forces, the project proponent, and the Kings Regional Service Commission, which provides services on behalf of local governing bodies.
Mary Ann Coleman, a former committee chair for the Waterford Local Service District, voiced worries that Dillon Consulting’s dual role could compromise the integrity of the project’s approval process. Coleman stated that community members are appalled and angry at dealing with a company facing a conflict of interest.
Construction of the first 15 wind turbines at the proposed wind farm could commence as early as the fall. The project, known as the Paqt’smawei Sipu Wind Project, has received approval to erect up to 42 wind turbines approximately 200 meters tall. Natural Forces, Indian Island First Nation, and Mi’gmaq United Investment Network collectively own the project.
Tess Donohue, the project manager for the wind farm at Natural Forces, mentioned that Dillon Consulting has been assisting with the project since 2024 and prepared the environmental impact assessment. Despite concerns raised, Donohue stated no conflict from their perspective, emphasizing that Dillon Consulting has previous experience with Natural Forces.
Efforts to reach out to the Kings Rural District and the service commission for interviews were unsuccessful. The amendment required for the wind farm project involves changes to Waterford’s rural plan to allow the construction of large-scale wind turbines in rural zones, subject to various regulations and guidelines.
Coleman, involved in the development of the rural plan, highlighted the community’s pride in preserving Waterford’s character and rural lifestyle through public consultation during the plan’s creation. Concerns were also raised regarding the exclusion of seasonal property owners from the definition of dwelling units in the amendment.
The commission’s planning committee has recommended the amendment to Local Government Minister Aaron Kennedy for final approval after voting in support of it. Input on the proposed amendment is currently being sought by the commission.