The following are highlights from the Jan. 28 regular meeting of council.

Trail Master Plan
Council approved the Town’s 2019 Trails & Pedestrian Master Plan, which provides a comprehensive overview of the trail system and an extensive outline for future improvements to the network. The document will be utilized for future operational and capital planning, as well as new land use and development areas. Its development commenced in June 2018 with a thorough review and evaluation of the current trail system and a public consultation program that offered a wide range of opportunities for feedback. The plan may be viewed online at www.innisfail.ca/trailsmp or in person at the Town Office.

Development Agreement Amendment
Council approved the amendment of a development agreement to allow for the construction of a ‘showhome parade’ in the Bella Vista subdivision. The amendment requires that gravel roadway access be provided and that the showhomes not be sold or occupied as residential dwellings until asphalt and other items have been inspected and approved by the Town.

Land Use Bylaw Amendment
In conjunction with the developer’s request to construct showhomes in the Bella Vista subdivision, it was identified that the Town’s Land Use Bylaw does not adequately address the type of land use being sought. A bylaw proposing an amendment to include a definition of ‘showhome’ along with a number of other general regulations was given first reading, and a public hearing was set for Monday, Feb. 25 at 6 p.m.

Waste Collection & Recycling Contract
Council approved the awarding of a three-year solid waste and recycling contract to Environmental 360 Solutions (E360S). Commencing in Spring 2019, the contract will see a number of changes to the collection and disposal of solid waste and organics in Innisfail. The contract includes: (1) Continuing weekly solid waste (garbage) pickup while transitioning from bagged collection to automation (carts); (2) Expanding ‘yard waste’ to include kitchen waste with weekly pickup in the summer months and bi-weekly pickup in the winter months, and transitioning from bagged collection to automation (carts); and (3) Continuing ‘green box’ weekly recycling with no change to the current service. Administration noted in its report to council that, based on the scenario presented, monthly consumer rates will remain unchanged at $23. Council at the same time approved the purchase of waste and organics carts for a total of $400,000 to be funded from the Town’s General Capital Reserve. Information detailing the changes will be sent to homeowners during the period leading up to the effect date.

Fire Services Dispatch Agreement
Council approved the renewal of a fire dispatch service agreement with the City of Red Deer. Administration noted that the Town’s Fire & Protective Services Department was “satisfied with the service provided over the previous contract period and [did] not have any concerns with continuing with this service provider.”