The following are highlights from the August 24, 2020 Regular Meeting of Council.
Bylaw 1470-A68 – Amendment to allow Retail Store and Restaurant as Discretionary Uses
A request for an amendment of the Land Use Bylaw to include a retail store and restaurant as discretionary uses on a parcel within the Established Industrial District (I-ES) was received by administration earlier this year. On Monday, members of the public attended the hearing held as part of the regular meeting of council. Council heard support both in favor of and against the amendment; however, during council discussion, Town staff identified several issues that did not support the amendment. Town staff highlighted the fact that a variance from Alberta Environment would be required before a development permit could be issued and that this stood as a major impediment to allowing the amendment to proceed. After further in-depth discussion on the matter, Council moved to refuse second reading of the bylaw. The motion was then carried.
Council Meeting Start Times
At the June 22, 2020 Meeting of Council, council meeting start times were moved from 6:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. for a trial period of two months. The intent of this change, among other considerations, was to allow presenting delegations and the general public to attend meetings during regular business hours. At the August 24, 2020 Council meeting, after brief discussion, Council agreed to extend the trial period for a further three months to ensure any issues arising from the change can be properly identified.
Age-Friendly Coordinator Business Case
In 2019, the Age-Friendly Final Report was presented to Council. At a later meeting in 2020, the Town’s Family & Community Support Services (FCSS) Coordinator presented an administrative review to Council detailing the resources required to implement the recommended actions outlined in the report. At Monday’s meeting the Town’s FCSS Coordinator presented Council with a business case for the hiring of a dedicated Age-Friendly Coordinator. After brief discussion, the presented business case was accepted as information and will be reviewed for consideration at a later meeting.
Innisfail Town Council strives to maintain a level of openness with its residents. The highlights above only briefly touch upon the exchanges and decisions reached during the most recent Council meeting. To find full details on the proceedings, click here. Meeting agendas and minutes are available for review.
