In the Town of Mount Royal (TMR), several households have been suffering from persistent flooding following torrential downpours.
It’s been happening for years.
Visual artist Norma Akkelian says it has cost her close to $300,000 out of pocket.
“It’s devestating,” she said. “It’s frustrating because you’re just waiting for the next flood. It’s not if, it’s when.”
Akkelian’s creative haven has been hit by flood after flood over the years. Earlier this month, the artist’s basement studio filled up with sludge and sewage water for the fifth time in three years.
The floors and panelling have been ripped out and re-installed multiple times. Akkelian said that insurance covered the damage at first, but now she’s paying out of pocket.
The flooding fiasco has also ruined paintings, drawings, and materials.
“We’re holding our breath when the next rain is going to come because we know the inevitable,” said Akkelian.
She is not alone.
Tensions between community members and Mayor Peter …