The following are highlights from the April 11 regular meeting of council.
Delegations
Representatives from Equs REA Ltd. presented Council with an overview of the organization’s history, member owned business model and services provided. EQUS is currently appealing an Alberta Utilities Commission regulation regarding municipal annexations and the ability of an REA to remain the service provider for annexed lands once incorporated into an urban municipality served by another provider.
Members of the Seniors Drop-in Society presented Council with an update of the Society’s kitchen renovation project and their plan to fund the upgrades through fundraising and grants. If a shortfall in funding exists they may request funding from the Town at a later date.
Sidewalk Cafes
Council adopted a policy allowing for the use of public lands for sidewalk cafes or merchant displays. The new policy will allow downtown businesses to offer patrons the option of outdoor dining and/or shopping.
45 Ave Reconstruction Project Contract Award
After a pre-qualification of contractors prior to sending out the tender, Council awarded the 45 Avenue reconstruction and 42 Avenue culvert upgrades contract to Carbon Earthworks Ltd. in the amount of $1,245,686 (excluding GST). A 10% contingency of $124,568 was also approved based on the recommendation provided by Al-Terra Engineering.
Downtown Benches
Council approved a plan to relocate some of the downtown benches. It was determined that the placement of some of the downtown benches are causing issues for motorists parking along Main Street.
2018 Audited Financial Statements
The 2018 Audited Financial Statements and the 2018 Province of Alberta Financial Information Return, which contains information from the financial statements, were both approved by Council. BDO Canada LLP served as the auditors. The Town remains in a very positive financial position through little debt accumulation, healthy dedicated reserves and tight budgeting.
Glass Recycling
A glass recycling agreement with Enviro-Grit Abrasives will allow for a drop-off glass recycling bin at the Innisfail transfer station. Council gave Town staff direction to proceed with the undertaking.
Lease Agreements
The Innisfail Farmers Market rental agreement of the Innisfail Arena was renewed for the term of May 16, 2019 through September 23, 2021.
The Innisfail Historical Society lease agreement was also approved with a term from January 1, 2019 through December 31, 2021.
